Takeaway
Japanese culture emphasizes everyday acts that help people feel respected. This may help clinicians better appreciate the value of simple practices like hospitality, punctuality, and warm greetings.
Connecting with patients | October 6, 2026 | 2 min read
By Maxwell Droznin, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine
A patient nodded as we reviewed a new medication. The plan seemed straightforward until, with a hand on the door, they asked how much it cost. We’d discussed the dose, benefits, and side effects. But then we reached the question that determined whether the prescription would ever be filled.
Traveling to Japan
My recent two-week trip to Japan gave me a new way to think about moments like this. Our itinerary brought together cities, temples, food, and time to slow down. And reflecting on Japanese customs brought me back to a familiar clinical question: How do we make it easier for someone to tell us what they need?
Of course, two weeks can’t capture a culture, and no custom describes everyone. Still, five practices offer useful prompts for how we care for patients.
1. Hospitality—anticipate, then ask.
Omotenashi, often translated as wholehearted hospitality, emphasizes thoughtful attention to guests’ needs. In medicine, we can prepare for needs patients may hesitate to voice: an interpreter, help navigating the building, or a discussion about medication costs. Anticipation should open a conversation. “What might make this plan difficult for you?” leaves room for patients to correct our assumptions.
2. Greetings verbalize respect.
Bowing gives acknowledgment a physical form in Japan. Our own opening gestures also communicate priorities to patients. We can knock, introduce ourselves and our role, ask how someone prefers to be addressed, and sit when possible. Before turning to the computer, we can give the person in front of us our full attention. These small actions help establish the encounter as a partnership.
3. Quiet—leave room for another voice.
The expectation of quiet on Japanese public transportation reflects consideration for others sharing a space. For healthcare professionals, it offers a reminder to notice how much space our own voices occupy. After asking a difficult question, pause. Let someone gather their thoughts. Silence may be useful and we should check whether a patient needs more time or a clearer question.
4. Punctuality—recognize the cost of waiting.
The Japanese emphasis on punctuality invites reflection on whose time we protect. A delayed visit can mean lost wages, missed transportation, or a childcare problem. When delays occur, acknowledge them and offer a realistic update. Set clear expectations for results and follow-up, too. Respect for patients’ time extends beyond the appointment.
5. Shared spaces—prepare for the next person.
Removing shoes at the entrance to homes and certain other spaces expresses care for the environment people share. In clinical settings, we can bring similar attention to privacy, accessible pathways, and a room prepared for the next patient. Everyone on the team contributes to that welcome.
Try one practice during your next patient encounter
Whatever our specialty, we can begin with an intentional greeting, ask about barriers to care, allow an unhurried pause, apologize for a delay, or check the room from a patient’s perspective. Choose one and notice what it makes possible.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.