Opening Japan Heart Asia Children's Medical Center

Reporting Period: November to February 2026

Overview

From November 2025 to February 2026, Japan Heart reached a major milestone in Cambodia with the opening and initial operation of the Japan Heart Asia Children’s Medical Center (JHACMC).

In 2025, Japan Heart’s activities in Cambodia continued to focus on both delivering medical care and strengthening the systems that support it. Alongside ongoing efforts in pediatric care and capacity building, the opening of JHACMC marked a significant step toward expanding access to specialized treatment and creating a more stable environment for continuous care.

Following the hospital’s opening, medical services gradually began, with outpatient and inpatient care starting to take shape. At the same time, the hospital has functioned as a place of learning and collaboration, where healthcare professionals and supporting staff work together, gaining experience through daily operations.

Through these combined efforts, the project has moved beyond infrastructure development and into the early stages of building a sustainable healthcare system rooted in local practice. 

Key Updates & Achievements

A Place Where Children’s Smiles Can Grow – The Journey Toward Opening the New Hospital     (November 12, 2025)

As the opening of the new hospital approached, preparations were carried out across multiple levels—from finalizing the physical environment to aligning operational workflows and team roles. Medical equipment installation, ward setup, and patient flow planning were conducted in parallel, requiring close coordination among staff from different backgrounds.

This phase also involved repeated simulations and adjustments to ensure that services could begin safely and smoothly from day one.

Achievement: The successful completion of these preparations enabled the hospital to transition into operation with both infrastructure and team readiness in place, minimizing disruption at the point of opening.

The Week Medical Care Began to Move (November 19, 2025)

During the first week after opening, the hospital began receiving patients and providing medical care. What had previously been a prepared space quickly transformed into an active clinical environment, where staff needed to respond to real patient needs in real time.

Initial challenges included coordinating between departments, adapting workflows, and ensuring clear communication across teams. Despite these challenges, the staff worked collaboratively to address issues as they arose.

Achievement: The hospital successfully launched its first phase of medical services, establishing the foundation for continuous care and demonstrating the team’s ability to adapt quickly to operational demands.

Two Weeks of Supporting the New Hospital as an OG Nurse (December 4, 2025)

An experienced nurse who had previously worked with Japan Heart returned to support the hospital during its early operational stage. Through direct involvement in patient care, as well as guidance on clinical procedures and workflow management, she played a key role in strengthening day-to-day operations.

Her presence also provided reassurance to less experienced staff, creating an environment where team members could ask questions, learn, and refine their practices.

Achievement: By bridging experience gaps and reinforcing clinical standards, her contribution helped stabilize early operations and supported the development of a more confident and coordinated nursing team.

The Medical Field Through the Eyes of a Cambodian Administrative Staff Member – The “Other Side” of Healthcare (December 23, 2025)

A Cambodian administrative staff member shared their perspective on the hospital, offering insight into the often unseen but essential functions that support medical care. Tasks such as patient coordination, communication between departments, and logistical support were highlighted as critical elements in ensuring smooth operations.

This perspective revealed how non-medical roles contribute directly to patient experience and overall system efficiency.

Achievement: The recognition and strengthening of administrative functions enhanced coordination across the hospital, supporting a more integrated and effective care delivery system.

Japan Heart Medical Center Through the Eyes of a Non-Medical Staff Member (January 8, 2026)

Further reflections from a non-medical staff member illustrated how individuals outside clinical roles engage with the hospital’s mission. By supporting daily operations, managing logistics, and assisting both patients and medical teams, these staff members play an essential role in maintaining the hospital environment.

Their experiences also highlight how involvement in the hospital fosters a sense of ownership and connection to its purpose.

Achievement: The increasing engagement of non-medical staff contributed to building a more inclusive and collaborative organizational culture, strengthening the hospital’s overall functionality.

Becoming a Place Where People Gather – The Vision of Outpatient Leader Nurse Srey Pich    (February 23, 2026)

As outpatient services expanded, Nurse Srey Pich took on a leadership role in shaping the department’s development. Her focus has been on creating a space where patients feel comfortable seeking care, while also improving accessibility and efficiency in service delivery.

Through her leadership, efforts have been made to organize patient flow, enhance communication with families, and build trust within the community.

Achievement: The strengthening of outpatient services has improved access to care and positioned the hospital as an increasingly trusted and approachable healthcare provider within the community.

Impact

Within a few months, the hospital has transitioned into an active care center. Patient access is increasing, and a diverse team supports daily operations.

Beyond treatment, the hospital is steadily building the systems and experience necessary for long-term sustainability.

Call to Action

As operations continue to grow, ongoing support remains essential.

Your contribution helps sustain and expand access to care for children who need it most.

Acknowledgement

We sincerely thank you for your continued support.

Your contribution is helping transform this hospital into a place of care, trust, and opportunity for the future.

Links:

• Japan Heart's Cambodia Activities in 2025
• From Opening to First Week of Medical Services