A good education in medicine involves not only acquiring new skills and knowledge, but also must be accompanied by careful attention to the less tangible aspects of growth into a practicing physician; compassion, cultural sensitivity, indexself-awareness, ethical and moral grounding, and a sense of service to fellow human beings. Kameda Medical Center is an ideal setting to nurture these aspects of professionalism. It is a unique Health care organization, with "Love" in the mission statement. At Kameda this is a practical reality, not just an ideal.

American visitors to Kameda are immediately aware of a "difference" in the mood and setting. Teamwork is a big factor. The friendliness of nurses and physicians and all support personnel is evident. The high quality and cost-effective care are a passion here and not just a pastime. But there is more. Kameda has become synonymous with innovation, and this is evident in all aspects of patient care. In the areas of home health, infection control, medical education, pharmacy services, to name a few, Kameda Medical Center is willing to selectively import ideas that work elsewhere and try new methods all with a goal of improving quality and efficiency.

This is the framework within which Medical Education flourishes at Kameda. The faculty and leadership have committed themselves to the highest quality educational programs with the understanding that tomorrow's physicians must embrace change, indeed, produce change. This is accomplished with an emphasis on EBM "evidence based medicine", comprehensive care and compassion. Residents have a continuing opportunity to practice their medical English skills and learn Western approaches to common as well as complex problems. Preparation for the OSCE, clinical skills exam and USMLE are incorporated into the daily routine. Visiting faculty, residents and students from abroad add to the experience. Overseas rotations are encouraged and facilitated by our faculty. Patient care and education are culturally sensitive and, where possible and appropriate, traditional therapies are incorporated as part of the regimen.

The workday is long and the workload can at times seem overwhelming, a necessary part of the process of becoming a professional. The benefit however, is a lifetime of enhanced professionalism. Kameda training prepares residents for overseas experiences, rotations abroad and specialty training programs. Many continue in senior residencies here or move on to export the Kameda ideal to other hospitals. Wherever their professional careers take them, graduates reflect on their Kameda experience with pride.