Hi everyone, I’m applying for a prestigious scholarship to go back to Japan this September for language study. It’s only available to me while I’m in grad school, so if I get it, I want to take full advantage and go for the max funding period of one year.
Three years ago in February, I had a bone marrow transplant for acute leukemia. It was extremely successful and I’m living almost completely normally now. I’m still being followed every few months or so by my transplant doctor. I get CBCs (which have been wonderful thus far!) and CMPs at every follow up. I want to make sure my doctor feels comfortable with me being away for that long (especially because he will need to sign off on my medical forms).
My question is if anyone has any experience or knows anyone with any experience with finding a hematology/oncology or stem cell transplantation clinic in Japan? I’m thinking of studying at a university in Tokyo or Osaka. I did a little research and saw that the University of Tokyo Hospital has a leukemia specialist and transplant clinic, but what is the process like for seeing someone?
Will I need a referral? Can I just make an appointment and get established that way? Should my transplant doctor in the US contact someone there?
This post is a little premature but it’s been on my mind for a while. I will really appreciate any insight. Also, I’m sending my best wishes to anyone affected by the earthquake.