Medical Care Children and Persons Support Day

What Is Medical Care Children and Persons Support Day?

September 18th is "Medical Care Children and Persons Support Day" in Japan, established in 2024 by the Association of Supporters for Children and Persons Requiring Medical Care (chaired by Daisuke Terasawa of Gifu Prefectural General Medical Center) and officially certified by the Japan Anniversary Association.

A Day Marking a Law That Expanded the Circle of Support

This memorial day aims to spread understanding and support throughout society for children who require ongoing medical care, and for their families.

• Origin: Commemorates September 18, 2021, the date the "Act on Support for Children Requiring Medical Care and Their Families" came into effect
• Established by: The Association of Supporters for Children and Persons Requiring Medical Care, chaired by Daisuke Terasawa of Gifu Prefectural General Medical Center, in 2024
• Certification: Officially recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association

Who Are "Medical Care Children"?

"Medical care children" refers to children who require ongoing medical support in daily life, such as suctioning or ventilator management. While the 2021 law clarified the responsibility of national and local governments to build support systems, easing the burden on families and expanding public understanding remain ongoing challenges.

How to Mark the Day

• Look into the details of the "Act on Support for Children Requiring Medical Care and Their Families"
• Learn about the circumstances facing children who need medical care and their families
• Research local support efforts for medical care children in your own community
• Share understanding of children needing medical care and their families with people around you

Understanding, One Person at a Time, Widens the Circle of Support

Medical Care Children and Persons Support Day looks toward a society where children who need medical care and their families can live with peace of mind in their own communities. On September 18th, consider reflecting on the circles of support that already exist close to home.