“Please go to room number 11 for your next test.” After room 11’s test was completed, “Room 6.” “Room 3.” “Room 1.” “Room 4.” After hearing the next number and receiving a clipboard with my information on it, I marched off toward the given room number, placed the item in a basket outside the room, and waited for my number to be called. Again. What adventure was I on today? My first ever Japanese 健康診断 (ken-koe-sheen-dawn), or physical examination, at a Japanese hospital.

In Japan, most working adults go to a nearby medical center or hospital for a series of health tests as their general, once-a-year checkup, paid for and often required by their employer. Since I am technically employed by the Japan Union Conference as part of our visa arrangement, I had the opportunity to go and have those same checkups. The tests performed are based on your age, gender and medical needs.

After changing into a medical gown (I was grateful they had my size), I was handed a clipboard with my test information and shuffled off to my first testing room to join the many others doing similar testing. The process was extremely efficient. Each room had a different test or two, and as soon as you finished one, you were sent to the next room. I underwent a barrage of tests, including a hearing test in an isolation booth, chest x-ray, heart EKG, vision test, had my blood taken and even consulted with a doctor at one point. The entire process took about an hour, and although it was nerve-wracking because I did not know what to expect, the kindness and patience of the nurses and doctor made the process go smoothly.

Japan’s government has made it possible for its people to receive medical care and testing in an efficient, cost-effective way. At least in our area of Japan, seeing a specialist or getting an appointment for your standard level of care has been simple, straightforward and quick. We live only a few minutes’ drive from a large hospital. We are very thankful for the care we can receive here.

Although Japan has gone to great lengths to care for the physical needs of its people—and has successfully done so, as shown by their long life and good health—many in the country still suffer with their mental health, as evidenced by the unfortunately high number of suicides that happen every year. Even more, most in the country struggle with their spiritual health, without even knowing it, because they are not acquainted with the Great Physician, Jesus Christ, who alone can bring true healing in all areas of life.

Please continue to pray that the Japanese people would seek to know and love their one and only Savior and that as many people as possible in this country would choose to follow Him.

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