Bridging Dementia Care in Japan: The Emerging Role of General Medicine Physicians

TL;DR

This paper explores how general medicine physicians in Japan can improve dementia care by bridging outpatient and inpatient services.

Contribution

The paper introduces a conceptual framework for general medicine physicians in Japan's dementia care system and compares it internationally.

Findings

General medicine physicians can act as integrative actors in Japan's dementia care system.

The model emphasizes early detection and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Challenges include training variability and workforce shortages.

Abstract

As global populations age, dementia has become a major public health challenge that warrants sustainable, person-centered, and community-integrated models of care. In Japan, the recent introduction of board-certified general medicine (GM) physicians, trained across both family medicine and hospital general medicine, has created an opportunity to strengthen dementia care through improved continuity and coordination. This narrative review conceptually examines the emerging role of GM physicians within Japan’s Community-Based Integrated Care System and compares this evolving model with dementia care structures in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. By synthesizing policy documents and published literature, this review outlines how GM physicians can serve as integrative actors bridging outpatient and inpatient care, collaborating with dementia specialists, Initial-phase Intensive Support Teams, and Community-based Comprehensive Support Centers to enhance person-centered support throughout the disease trajectory. While empirical outcome data remain limited, this conceptual framework highlights potential contributions of GM physicians to early detection, care transitions, and interdisciplinary collaboration in dementia care. However, challenges persist, including training variability, workforce shortages, and systemic fragmentation. By situating Japan’s experience within an international context, this review provides a conceptual basis for future empirical studies and policy development aimed at strengthening generalist-led dementia care in aging societies.

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