Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Announces Call for Organizations to Implement Training Programs for Nurse Specialists and Instructors for Specified Medical Practices in Fiscal Year 2025 (Reiwa 7)
On February 25, 2024, at 8:00 AM, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) of Japan announced a call for applications from organizations interested in implementing training programs for nurse specialists and instructors related to specified medical practices (特定行為) in fiscal year 2025 (Reiwa 7). This initiative aims to further promote the utilization and expertise of nurses in advanced practice settings, enhancing the quality and efficiency of medical care in Japan.
Key Details of the Call for Applications:
- Title: Call for Organizations to Implement Training Programs for Nurse Specialists and Instructors for Specified Medical Practices in Fiscal Year 2025 (Reiwa 7)
- Announcement Date: February 25, 2024 (8:00 AM)
- Issuing Body: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW)
- Objective: To select organizations capable of providing high-quality training programs that meet the needs of nurses specializing in specific medical practices. These programs are designed to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills required to perform designated medical procedures safely and effectively, under the guidance of physicians. Furthermore, the initiative also focuses on training instructors who can subsequently guide and supervise other nurses in performing these specified medical practices.
- Fiscal Year: 2025 (Reiwa 7) – This indicates that the selected organizations will implement the training programs during the Japanese fiscal year 2025, which begins on April 1, 2025, and ends on March 31, 2026.
- Target Audience: This call for applications is directed towards organizations with the capability and resources to develop and deliver comprehensive training programs. Potential applicants include:
- Universities with nursing departments or graduate schools of nursing
- Medical institutions (hospitals, clinics)
- Professional nursing associations
- Non-profit organizations (NPOs) with relevant expertise
- Other organizations deemed suitable by the MHLW
Background and Significance:
The Japanese government has been actively promoting the expansion of nurse roles, particularly in the area of specified medical practices. This allows nurses to perform certain medical procedures that were traditionally performed solely by physicians, thereby addressing the growing demand for healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This initiative is critical for:
- Addressing Healthcare Workforce Shortages: By empowering nurses to perform specified medical practices, the program alleviates the burden on physicians and improves access to timely and appropriate care.
- Improving Efficiency and Quality of Care: Well-trained nurse specialists can contribute significantly to the efficiency and quality of medical care, particularly in areas where physician resources are limited.
- Enhancing Nurse Professional Development: The program provides opportunities for nurses to advance their careers and develop specialized expertise, contributing to increased job satisfaction and retention.
- Responding to the Aging Society: As Japan’s population ages, the demand for healthcare services will continue to grow. This initiative helps prepare the healthcare system to meet these challenges by expanding the capacity of the nursing workforce.
Specific Medical Practices (特定行為):
“Specified medical practices” refer to a set of medical procedures that nurses are permitted to perform under the supervision of a physician, after completing specialized training. Examples of these practices can vary depending on the area of specialization but often include:
- Insertion of nasogastric tubes
- Management of central venous catheters
- Wound management
- Administration of certain medications
- Respiratory management
- Pain management
Expected Outcomes:
The MHLW expects the selected organizations to develop and implement training programs that:
- Adhere to the guidelines and standards set by the MHLW.
- Provide comprehensive theoretical and practical training.
- Employ qualified instructors with expertise in the relevant medical practices.
- Assess the competence of trainees through rigorous evaluation methods.
- Contribute to the overall improvement of nurse specialist training in Japan.
Application Process:
The specific details of the application process, including eligibility criteria, application deadlines, required documentation, and evaluation criteria, are typically outlined in the official announcement and related documents published on the MHLW website. Interested organizations should carefully review these materials to ensure that they meet the requirements and submit a complete and compelling application. The application likely requires a detailed proposal outlining the proposed training program’s curriculum, resources, instructors, evaluation methods, and budget.
Where to Find More Information:
The official announcement and related documents regarding this call for applications can be found on the MHLW website (in Japanese). A search for “令和７年度看護師の特定行為に係る指導者等育成事業実施団体の公募について” on the MHLW website will likely lead to the relevant page.
Conclusion:
This initiative by the MHLW highlights the Japanese government’s commitment to strengthening the nursing workforce and promoting the delivery of high-quality healthcare services. By supporting the development of training programs for nurse specialists and instructors, the MHLW aims to expand the scope of nursing practice and improve access to care for patients throughout Japan. Organizations with the expertise and resources to contribute to this important effort are encouraged to apply.
The AI has provided us with the news.
I asked Google Gemini the following question.
厚生労働省 a new article on 2025-02-25 08:00 titled “令和７年度看護師の特定行為に係る指導者等育成事業実施団体の公募について”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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