Nikkei Medical Announces 'On-duty Room-1 Grand Prix 2026' Results: Himeno Hospital in Fukuoka Named First Winner

Nikkei Medical, a specialized publication for medical professionals operated by Nikkei BP, announced the results of the 'On-duty Room-1 Grand Prix 2026' on May 20, 2026. This inaugural event, designed to recognize the most comfortable hospital on-duty rooms in Japan, awarded the first-ever Grand Prix to Himeno Hospital located in Hirokawa, Fukuoka Prefecture.

■ Grand Prix Winner: Highlights of Himeno Hospital
Himeno Hospital's on-duty rooms feature high-end Simmons beds, a dedicated PC environment for accessing medical records and making orders, and a 24-hour complimentary food and beverage service. A representative from the hospital emphasized that 'doctors are human beings too,' leading to a complete renovation of their previously windowless, cramped rooms into a space where staff actually want to stay. This improvement has reportedly encouraged full-time doctors to take more on-duty shifts, a role previously filled mostly by part-time physicians.

Dr. Yasumasa Yakushiji, chairman of the judging committee and director of Yakushiji Jikei Hospital, praised the facility, stating it was so comfortable that one wouldn't want to leave. The decision was unanimous among the three judges. The project aims to provide practical tips for improving working conditions as part of Japan's ongoing 'work-style reform' in the medical sector.

Detailed results and profiles of special award winners are featured on the Nikkei Medical website and in the newly issued 'Nikkei Medical Special Edition 2026 Summer' magazine.