To help deal with its ageing population, Japan offers super bespoke health programmes for individual citizens, which aim to do a better job at predicting and preventing illnesses and make emergency care less necessary.
The Health Secretary is taking a bold step forward by looking to Japan for inspiration in transforming healthcare for Britons within the NHS.
Wes Streeting is championing the idea of “health MOTs” for older citizens, akin to Japan’s innovative use of personalized medical plans tailored to its aging population. Japan has successfully integrated genomics and AI machine learning to create exceptionally customized health programs that not only predict but also prevent illnesses before they become serious.
Mr. Streeting believes that adopting this proactive approach could revolutionize the UK healthcare system as he gears up to unveil a comprehensive 10-year plan for the NHS in 2025. His vision is clear: by shifting care from hospitals to local communities, we can prioritize preventive measures instead of relying on expensive and invasive emergency treatments.
In fact, last year, NHS England, which is slated to undergo significant changes, announced that individuals over 65, as well as those with frailty-related conditions, would be offered health MOTs outside of emergency departments. This proactive initiative is designed to minimize unnecessary hospital admissions by assessing vital factors like blood pressure, heart health, and mobility. By embracing these innovative practices, we have the opportunity to fundamentally enhance the health and well-being of our aging population, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for all.
