FMU welcomes a student from National Taiwan University, an important international partner

Oct. 27, 2025

Baishiou Hsiao Begins a Six-Week Study Abroad!

 Baishiou Hsiao (6th-year medical student) from National Taiwan University (NTU), began his six-week study abroad program at our university on Monday, October 6th. Baishiou will participate in observational training across four departments at our hospital: Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism; Nephrology and Hypertension; Gastrointestinal Surgery; and Gastroenterology.

Orientation and Campus Tour

 On his first day, Baishiou visited our Global Exchange Center, GEX, for a meeting with Director Shunichi Yamashita and an orientation session. He then participated in a tour of our campus and hospital led by Professor Kenneth Nollet (Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey), learning about the unique features and initiatives of the university and hospital. During a welcome lunch hosted by GEX, Baishiou and three FMU medical students had an engaging discussion, deepening their exchange.

Discussion at the Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey

 In the afternoon, Baishiou visited the Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey and met with Director Seiji Yasumura. Baishiou posed questions about the overview, survey items, and results of the Prefectural Health Survey he had studied beforehand, leading to a lively discussion with Director Yasumura.
 Afterwards, they visited the thyroid examination room within the center. Guided by Deputy Director Hiroki Shimura, they observed the ultrasound equipment and cytological diagnosis procedures used for thyroid examinations conducted throughout the prefecture.

Introduction to Disaster Medicine and VR Experience

 At the Radiation Disaster Medical Center, Baishiou met with Professor Arifumi Hasegawa (Department of Radiation Disaster Medicine). They viewed footage showing medical professionals working tirelessly during the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, learned about disaster medicine training using VR (virtual reality) through the Kawauchi Legends VR Edition^※, and experienced measuring radiation levels using Medical Center equipment.

The Significance of Studying Medicine in Fukushima

 Finally, Director Shunichi Yamashita delivered a lecture on endocrinology and nuclear power plant accidents. This provided a valuable opportunity to connect the lecture content with experiences gained throughout the day. Baishiou shared his impressions, stating, "I was deeply moved to feel Fukushima's efforts firsthand from the very first day."

^※Kawauchi Legends VR Edition: Training simulation software developed by the Department of Radiation Disaster Medicine for medical response involving hazards such as radioactive and nuclear materials. It enables training in risky environments within the metaverse (virtual space). Integrated into graduate school practical training since the 2022 academic year, it enables crisis and disaster response training requiring team coordination and provides pre-experience opportunities.
(https://www.fmu.ac.jp/education/medicine/department/housai/news/20240506.html)