Half a Century of Dedication: Edogawa Ward's "Go-To" Clinic Resolves 40,000 Annual Concerns

"When in trouble, we have to go there"—such is the deep trust placed in a local practitioner in Edogawa Ward. Dr. Narimoto Yamamoto, who runs Yamamoto Clinic, is a seasoned physician specializing in dermatology and urology. Inspired by the loss of his mother in childhood, he dedicated himself to medicine with the aspiration to "save as many patients as possible." Now, nearly half a century into his career, he continues to face each patient with sincerity, never forgetting his initial resolve.

Text & Photograph by Junko Tanaka (OPENERS)

What Inspired You to Become a Doctor?

It was after my mother passed away. Her death during childbirth prompted me to pursue a career in medicine, driven by the desire to save as many patients as I could. When I entered medical school, I chose to specialize in dermatology and urology, fields with a significant shortage of doctors at the time.

After graduating from Chiba University School of Medicine in 1959, you completed your graduate studies there in 1964 and immediately obtained your doctorate.

Rather than staying for research, I wanted to begin clinical practice right away. I felt a strong urge to help patients suffering from illness as soon as possible. Two years later, in April 1966, I opened my practice in Koiwa.

When did the idea of opening your own clinic first emerge?

During my residency after graduate school. It stemmed from the desire to see patients with my own eyes and help as many as possible. It might seem like an early decision to open a practice, but for me, with such a strong conviction, it felt like a natural progression.

Why did you choose Koiwa?

Koiwa was a place of fond memories from my time as a resident at the university hospital; I commuted there daily. Looking at the townscape from the train, I thought, "This would be a good place to open a clinic." Koiwa wasn't as developed as it is now, so locals told me my three-story clinic seemed like a "skyscraper." Of course, it's now surrounded by buildings and apartments (laughs). About half a century has passed since then.

What kind of patients do you typically see?

I primarily see patients for ongoing treatment. When a case is beyond my scope, I refer them to specialized or university hospitals. Once they are stable there, they often return to my clinic for continued care. Seeing patients leave with a smile after their treatment is my greatest joy.

Could you tell us about your treatment philosophy?

Are there any daily practices you maintain to achieve this?

My family says my hobby is medicine. Whenever I have free time, I attend dermatology and urology conferences and make an effort to read the latest clinical literature. For general practitioners like myself, every moment of treatment is critical. Although I've been practicing for 45 years, I want to continue working on the front lines. That's my aspiration.