Current Status and Recommendations for Improving the Specialty Program of the Hospital General Medicine Society: Insights from Discussions at the 30th Japan Society of Hospital General Medicine Annual Meeting

Abstract

General medicine was formally established as a basic specialty in Japan in 2018, and a specialty program for hospital general medicine was later launched in 2022. Fellows of Hospital General Medicine (FHGM) are expected to deliver high-quality care in outpatient clinics, general beds, emergency wards, and intensive care settings while contributing to community healthcare, research, and education. However, the number of FHGMs remains small, with key challenges regarding education and career path clarification. Educational improvement requires clinical supervision by experienced FHGMs and enhanced diagnostic reasoning education through a well articulated teaching regimen.Additionally, presenting clear FHGM career paths is essential, as it requires concrete, diversified career models and network building. Such systems are necessary to continuously train FHGMs to provide standardized, high-quality medical care and to contribute to the dissemination and expansion of the Japanese healthcare system.