For nearly a decade, Dr. Kinoshita Koshi, Head of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy at Kyoto Min-iren Chuo Hospital (Japan), has dedicated his expertise to advancing gastrointestinal endoscopy techniques in Vietnam. As a mentor to many Vietnamese endoscopists, Dr. Kinoshita has worked tirelessly to improve endoscopy quality, focusing on the early detection of cancer and precancerous lesions.

During his recent visit to Vietnam, Dr. Kinoshita expressed his appreciation for the significant progress made in gastrointestinal endoscopy services at Bernard Healthcare.

Early detection of gastrointestinal cancer is key to effective treatment

Gastrointestinal endoscopy plays an essential role in detecting abnormalities, especially cancers, at an early stage.

Highlighting the importance of early intervention, Dr. Kinoshita shared: "Early detection of gastrointestinal cancers significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. In some cases, endoscopic intervention alone can cure the disease without requiring major surgery. However, waiting until symptoms appear often leads to late-stage diagnoses, making treatment more complex. Routine endoscopy is an effective way to lower the risk of severe gastrointestinal diseases."

Dr. Kinoshita advises that routine endoscopic screenings begin after the age of 30, particularly to test for Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infections. If untreated, this bacterium can damage the stomach lining, potentially causing ulcers or cancer. He also recommends that individuals experiencing persistent stomach pain or blood in stool seek endoscopic evaluation.

Japanese-standard quality endoscopy at Bernard Healthcare

Committed to comprehensive healthcare solutions inspired by Japan's 70-year Ningen Dock model, Bernard Healthcare has introduced advanced endoscopic techniques under the supervision of leading Japanese experts in quality management.

Discussing quality management, Dr. Kinoshita emphasized two key elements of quality management: First, maintaining state-of-the-art equipment through regular servicing, and second, ensuring that endoscopists and anesthesiologists receive ongoing professional training and supervision.

As Bernard's Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Quality Management Advisor, Dr. Kinoshita expressed his appreciation for Bernard's investments in both equipment and staff training. "Bernard's endoscopy equipment is on par with that of leading hospitals,” he said. “The medical team here quickly adapts, collaborates effectively, and performs efficient procedures. I’ve seen considerable improvements at Bernard over the past six months based on my previous recommendations. Bernard has achieved a level of quality that is not easily matched."

The partnership between Japanese experts and Bernard Healthcare’s Medical Advisory Board has not only raised the standard of endoscopy but also made Japanese-quality services accessible. This partnership addresses Vietnam’s growing demand for gastrointestinal screening and early disease detection, contributing to the reduction of severe cases.

On December 10, 2024, Bernard Healthcare and Kyoto Min-iren Chuo Hospital formalized their partnership through a strategic cooperation agreement. The focus is on improving gastrointestinal care in Vietnam, with shared goals that include quality management, standardized protocols, professional consultation, and training. Their mission is to ensure, as stated: "Early detection for complete recovery; no missed lesions, precise staging assessments."

Bernard’s Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit operates in line with Japan’s 70-year Ningen Dock model, featuring advanced technology and strict quality management under the guidance of specialists from Kyoto Min-iren Chuo Hospital. The unit works closely with Bernard's Medical Advisory Board to prioritize safety and eliminate cross-contamination risks. Procedures are designed to be smooth and painless (sedation endoscopy), led by experienced anesthesiologists.

For complex cases or suspected malignancies, Bernard’s doctors consult remotely with experts from Kyoto Min-iren Chuo Hospital, ensuring accurate diagnoses and timely treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

To schedule a comprehensive health checkup, including gastrointestinal diagnostics, contact Bernard Healthcare at +84 28 3535 2468.