Yuzuki Kataoka (Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, 3rd year *at the time) August 20 - August 26, 2023

I had the opportunity to participate in the Thai Pharmacy Experience. Through this experience, I was able to learn about Thailand's education and medical systems.

In Khon Kaen University's educational system, the practical training time is more than twice as long as in Japan, and they have a full-scale pharmaceutical preparation room, which made me feel that their practical education is quite advanced. I was also able to see them making in-hospital preparations at Srinagarind Hospital and visit the clinical trial center. I also learned about the differences in the medical system, such as how in Thailand, 16 representative diseases are treated free of charge, and how at the private Bangkok Hospital, you pay for your medicine before it is dispensed.

By observing the work of Thai pharmacists up close and learning about their medical system, my interest in the work of Japanese pharmacists and Japan's medical system grew even stronger. I also had the chance to experience Thai culture by visiting night markets and temples, which was a great learning experience.

What left a particularly strong impression on me was the vitality and hospitality of the Thai people. They gave me a warm welcome even though it was their exam period when I visited, and I was moved when they went out of their way to see me off at the airport when I returned to Japan. I also found them to be very proactive, striking up lively conversations even with people they had just met. Inspired by their attitude, I actively approached hospital pharmacists and facility staff to ask questions about things I was curious about. Thanks to this, I was able to gain a lot of information, have many experiences, and enjoy our conversations.

It was also a valuable experience to be able to talk with people from another country who are also studying the same field of pharmacy. This is a program I would highly recommend to anyone who is even slightly interested.

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to create and participate in this experience.