Good Medical Care Day

What Is Good Medical Care Day?

November 1st is "Good Medical Care Day" in Japan. The date comes from a wordplay reading "11" as "ii" (good) and "1" as "i" (medical/doctor), together forming "ii iryo" (good medical care). It was established in 2017 by the Japan Medical Association. November 1st is also the day the association was founded, in 1947.

A Wordplay Holiday That Deepens Gratitude for Medical Care

Good Medical Care Day expresses gratitude to the doctors and medical professionals who support daily healthcare, while also spreading understanding of medicine.

• Origin: the founding date of the Japan Medical Association (November 1, 1947), which also reads as "ii" (11, good) and "i" (1, medical)
• Purpose: for the public and doctors to think together about what good healthcare should be, and to improve medical care for the nation
• Related activities: the Japan Medical Association and local medical associations sometimes hold lectures and health awareness events

The Value of Having a Trusted Primary Care Doctor

Having a trusted "family doctor" you can consult regularly is considered a first step toward catching changes in your health early and connecting to appropriate care. Good Medical Care Day is also a chance to reconsider your own relationship with healthcare.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Think about who your or your family's primary care doctor is
• Check on your health checkup or physical exam schedule
• Put your gratitude for medical professionals into words
• Review your everyday health management habits

Trustworthy Healthcare Supports Everyday Peace of Mind

Having medical care to rely on when you're not feeling well is a major support in daily life. November 1st is a day to deepen your gratitude and understanding of healthcare.