Roger Ideishi, JD, OT/L, FAOTA traveled to Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan’s largest public university, in November 2023 to establish a faculty exchange system with the GW occupational therapy program in Washington, D.C. Throughout his time, he established new connections and immersed himself in Japan’s occupational therapy education to strengthen GW occupational therapy.
While lecturing to both undergraduate and graduate students alike, Ideishi discussed the United States of America’s healthcare systems integration with community-based practices within occupational therapy. He also spoke of emerging technologies within the field and how occupational therapists can use these tools to advance their healthcare literacy. Ideishi made certain to highlight that occupational therapy education in Japan using arts and crafts is an equally important staple of Japanese culture that brings joy.
When asked about additional cultural experiences or site visits, Ideishi mentioned that during his time in Tokyo he also went to visit community mental health centers where occupational therapists practice. Their work is geared toward support across a client's entire lifespan, and their dedication to holistic care is evidenced by the fact that they are open Monday through Saturday, with daily three meal service, and additional safety measures offered on site. “It felt as though these supports were available to anyone and everyone who needed it, regardless of age, gender, or background,” Ideishi explained, remarking on the praiseworthy accessibility of healthcare in Japan.
He also observed that individuals with disabilities often worked toward goals with tangible job roles such as cooks, cashiers, and cake decorators. They were matched with a variety of different positions that were much more hands-on than what we expect in the United States. Ideishi elaborated by explaining that in Japan, federal law requires ten percent of all employees of a business to be part of a disability community. This allows for occupational therapists to use their positions to help prepare them for these roles.
Overall, Ideishi had an immersive and meaningful experience collaborating with Tokyo Metropolitan University, where he gathered similarities and differences that can help to improve occupational therapy programs both abroad and here in the United States at GW’s occupational therapy program.
