Critical cancer surgery for Cambodian infants

Building a Stronger Future: Growing Cambodia’s Healthcare Capacity (July- August 2026)

Overview

During July and August 2026, Japan Heart’s Cambodia program continued to strengthen pediatric and surgical care while investing in the people who make sustainable healthcare possible. Through the experiences of medical team members, the development of Cambodian healthcare professionals, and the acceptance of a patient from outside Cambodia, this period highlighted the growing role of local capacity and international collaboration.

Rather than focusing only on providing medical treatment, Japan Heart continues to build a healthcare system in which knowledge, skills, and experience are passed on to local professionals. The stories shared during this period demonstrate how long-term collaboration can create lasting impact- through training, mentorship, advanced medical care, and the gradual transfer of responsibility to Cambodian staff.

This report highlights these efforts and the people behind them, showing how continued support helps build a stronger and more sustainable healthcare system for children and families in Cambodia.

Key Updates & Achievements

Medical Team Experience in Cambodia (Jul. 09, 2026)

A Japanese nurse reflected on her experience working in Cambodia through Japan Heart’s Medical Team program. Through working alongside Cambodian colleagues, she gained a deeper understanding of teamwork, communication, and what it means to provide safe and compassionate care. Her experience also highlighted the importance of creating an environment where both patients and healthcare workers can grow and feel supported.

A Decade of Experience Passed on to the Next Generation (Jul. 24 & 31, 2026)

Nurse Y.F. reflected on more than ten years of work with Japan Heart across Japan, Myanmar, and Cambodia. Over the years, one of her most important roles was gradually transferring responsibilities to Cambodian staff. What was once difficult to let go of has become a source of pride as former junior staff have grown into leaders who now train and support the next generation of healthcare professionals. Her story demonstrates how long-term human resource development can create impact that continues even beyond the involvement of individual international staff.

Building Rehabilitation Capacity for Children (Aug. 6, 2026)

Japan Heart welcomed its first physical therapist to the Medical Team at the Japan Heart Asia Children’s Medical Center. Drawing on previous experience in international cooperation, the therapist established the hospital’s first rehabilitation department and began developing pediatric rehabilitation services. While still in its early stages, this new area of care expands the hospital’s capacity to support children not only through medical treatment, but also through rehabilitation and recovery.

First International Patient Treated at the New Hospital (Aug. 17, 2026)

The Japan Heart Asia Children’s Medical Center welcomed its first patient from outside Cambodia since opening. A teenage girl from a neighboring country received treatment for a recurrence of Wilms tumor, a type of pediatric kidney cancer. A Japanese pediatric surgical specialist worked together with Cambodian doctors and nurses to safely perform the surgery. Beyond the treatment itself, the collaboration included case discussions and technical guidance for local medical staff, strengthening both patient care and professional development.

Cambodian Staff Taking Greater Leadership in Surgery (Aug. 24, 2026)

Japan Heart has continued to transfer surgical skills to Cambodian medical professionals. Since the introduction of lift-type laparoscopic surgery in 2024, approximately 60 laparoscopic procedures, mainly gallbladder removals, have been performed. For appropriate cases, Cambodian staff are now able to carry out laparoscopic gallbladder surgery independently, including preparation, without the Japanese physician present. This represents an important step toward greater local ownership of advanced medical care and demonstrates the value of sustained training and hands-on experience.

Acknowledgement

These achievements are made possible by the continued support of donors, partners, and supporters around the world. Your contributions help Japan Heart provide medical care while also investing in the healthcare professionals who will carry this work forward.

From training and mentorship to advanced surgery and the development of new pediatric services, every step contributes to a stronger and more sustainable healthcare system in Cambodia. We are deeply grateful for your continued trust and support as we work together to ensure that more children and families can access the care they need.