Support System of Maternal and Child Care on Great East Japan Earthquake

When a large-scale natural disaster occurs in Japan, the type of support provided is decided based on the demands of the affected prefecture. Moreover, it is necessary for local governments and regions to reach out to mothers and children who cannot contact the governments for the request of support. In particular, it is necessary to pay attention to pregnant and nursing women and infants with sufficient preparation for their obstetric medical needs. The legal basis for providing support such as establishing evacuation sites for pregnant and nursing women is necessary. In recent major disasters, various groups from all over the areas of Japan have provided appropriate support. Cross-sectoral coordination between organizations as well as with the government is essential from the perspective of providing support for maternal and child care.