February 12, 2015

Book on Modern Japan Features Work by Dr. Fetters

Michael D. Fetters, M.D., M.P.H., M.A.
Dr. Fetters

A new interdisciplinary book about modern Japan features several chapters co-authored by Michael D. Fetters, M.D., M.P.H., M.A., professor and director of U-M's Japanese Family Health Program.

Dr. Fetters' work in Japan for the last 24 years has cemented him as an expert on medicine and primary care in the country. He currently leads the Shizuoka-University of Michigan Advanced Residency Training, Education and Research in Family Medicine Program.

"While there are many books and articles about medicine and Japan, most are dedicated to a single facet, and it is actually difficult to find sources that provide an overarching view. These chapters provide general overviews of the history of medicine in Japan, the current medical system, history and current status of medical education, and ethical issues in Japan," noted Dr. Fetters.

Dr. Fetters book cover

The book, The SAGE Handbook of Modern Japanese Studies, is designed to serve as a major interdisciplinary reference work and a seminal text, both rigorous and accessible, to assist students and scholars in understanding one of the major nations of the world. It features sections on history, society, politics, economy and medicine.

Dr. Fetters' chapters include:

A Brief History of Japanese Medicine by Izumi Yokoyama and Michael D. Fetters

The authors outline a rich history of pivotal events that characterize and continue to have influence today upon the research and practice of medicine in Japan’s society. It is notable that medical practice transformed gradually following the introduction of Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, German and American influences.

Health Care in Japan: Excellent Population Health, Low Medical Expenditures, yet Ambiguous Place of Primary Care by Jonathan E. Rodnick, Izumi Yokoyama and Michael D. Fetters

As described in the chapter title, the Japanese demonstrate the paradox of enjoying one of the longest life expectancies in the world, while spending only 10.0 percent of Japan’s gross domestic product on medical care. Nevertheless, specialty-trained physicians provide most of the care, lacking the training that would enable them to manage a broad spectrum of primary care patient needs.

Medical Education in Japan by Michael D. Fetters and Izumi Yokoyama

A concise overview is provided of the history up to the modern era of the medical education system in Japan. Specifically, Dr. Fetters gives personal insights from his teaching and lecturing in Japanese medical schools and hospitals.

Bioethics and Medico-legal Issues by Michael D. Fetters

Dr. Fetters provides a rich examination of differences between U.S. and Japanese views and decisions surrounding bioethical and medical-legal issues that have arisen since the 1960s. He highlights principles of Japanese medical ethics, such as those espoused by the Japan Medical Association, and the complex process undergirding the formation of these principles.

View the book listing online at http://www.sagepub.com/books/Book233757.