Noriko Suzuki (6th year, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy *at the time)

I participated in a five-week clinical rotation at the University of Iowa in the United States. During my practical training, I learned that medical systems differ significantly between Japan and overseas. I joined the Overseas Advanced Practical Training program because I wanted to see firsthand the differences between Japanese and American healthcare and pharmacists, as well as the underlying cultures and mindsets.

During the first week, I attended local classes at the University of Iowa with local students and participated in community pharmacy activities. For the remaining four weeks, I shadowed pharmacists and pharmacy students at hospitals and clinics, observing the work of pharmacists in the U.S. up close. Through this rotation, I became acutely aware of the differences in healthcare and the responsibilities of pharmacists between Japan and the U.S. In particular, in the U.S., medical insurance varies by patient, which determines which medications can be used. As a result, patients themselves are highly interested in their own medical care, and I witnessed many situations where they actively chose their own treatment methods. I also visited a Medication Assistance Center, a facility that provides support for patients who are uninsured or have limited coverage. I was very surprised to learn that pharmaceutical companies in the U.S. issue various discounts and coupons for medications, making the positioning of healthcare very different from that in Japan.

Furthermore, at the hospital, I was struck by the strong connections within the team and the high level of expertise among pharmacists, which made me reconsider the kind of pharmacist I aspire to be. In the U.S., pharmacy technicians handle technical tasks, creating an environment where pharmacists can focus on patient communication and participation in team-based medicine. In team-based care, doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and dietitians engage in discussions as equals, with a clear division of labor in their respective fields. I was very impressed to see that many American pharmacists specialize in specific areas, constantly gathering new knowledge about medications in their field and engaging in discussions with other professionals with a strong sense of responsibility.

Beyond the hospital, after rotations and on weekends, the faculty members and P4 students at the University of Iowa took me to various places, allowing me to experience many aspects of American culture. I had never been to an English-speaking country before and was very anxious about my English speaking skills, but thanks to the warm support of the local people, I was able to spend a fun five weeks that will be a lifelong memory. If you are interested, I highly encourage you to take on the challenge of the Overseas Advanced Practical Training!