Japan facing obstetrician shortage

Many expectant mothers, especially those in remote regions, have to make do with doctors who have to be flown in from other areas, reports The Washington Post. If such facilities are not available, pregnant women are being asked to give birth at faraway regional hospitals at set times, a scheduling practice useless for those going into early or delayed labor.

The Post notes Japan is a rapidly aging nation with one of the world's lowest birthrates. As a result, the number of pediatric care specialists is dropping sharply, which has stretched the ranks to the point where they no longer can manage the caseload. Students interested in obstetrics also are discouraged by the long hours, high malpractice risk and relatively average pay, says the report.

Health experts told the Post that Japan last year experienced the first decline in its population of 127.7 million with 1-in-5 people older than 65. This is projected to fall to about 100 million by 2050 if the trend continues.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International