Yodogawa Christian Hospital

Osaka, Japan

At the end of the second world war Japan was a devastated country and the city of Osaka was in shambles. In response to a need for medical assistance, a survey was made by Presbyterian missionary Dr. Frank A. Brown. As a result, a healing ministry became a major function of the Presbyterian Mission in Japan. In 1956 Dr. Brown helped establish Yodogawa Christian Hospital (YCH) in a needy area of Osaka. Funds from the Birthday Offering of the Presbyterian Women helped pay for the building. Through the years the hospital has grown in medical expertise and technology. It is now a 600 bed non-profit institution staffed by Japanese doctors and nurses, with a stated mission: "To correlate the power of Christ's love and the highest competence of modern science in caring for the social, physical, mental, and spiritual needs of its patients."

YCH has been a pioneer in many instances. The first transfusions in Japan for RH incompatibility were performed there in 1958. In 1973 YCH pioneered in the first hospice type program of special care for terminally ill patients and their families. And in 1984, a separate 23 bed unit for hospice was opened within the hospital, responding to a crucial need of this country, in which cancer is a leading cause of death. Both the scientific innovation and the compassionate care given, reflect the ministry to the whole person so well articulated in the mission statement.

Today YCH is renowned for its excellent medical care -- especially for mothers, babies, and children. Many patients are referred there from other hospitals. Medical social work and an evangelistic department are also provided by this caring hospital which cooperates with the community and with other medical facilities. A modern Center for Total Health Care was opened in a section of the new West Building in 1990. Construction on a new 100 bed unit for long-term care will begin soon.

This hospital contributes to the Christian health ministries of other Asian countries by sending staff members occasionally to work and teach, and also provides training in certain specialities for health professionals from other Asian countries.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) relates to Yodogawa Christian Hospital through its partner church the Reform Church of Japan, the United Church of Christ in Japan and through the JapanNorth American Commission, an ecumenical organization. Extra Commitment Opportunity Account # 326102 is designated for General Support.