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On January 14, 2021, the Prime Minister held an exchange of views with medical organizations at the Prime Minister’s Office.
 
The Prime Minister said in his opening address:
 
“I thank all of you, who work in the field of healthcare, for coming all the way here today amidst your extremely busy schedules. Also, I express my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for your dedicated efforts to protect the lives of novel coronavirus patients, taking the utmost care to prevent infections, regardless of the New Year holidays.
 
The number of cases has been increasing rapidly throughout Japan from the beginning of this year. As of yesterday, 11 prefectures have become subject to the Declaration of the State of Emergency that the Government issued so as to prevent the spread of infections at all costs and shift it to a declining trend. We intend to continue our all-out efforts to prevent the spread of infections.
 
In addition, we recognize support for medical institutions to be extremely important. We will support medical institutions, which provide novel coronavirus responses, to the maximum possible extent, so that they are able to provide thorough medical treatment by installing medical equipment and securing health professionals on duty.
 
You have already been making significant contributions in securing beds allocated to new coronavirus patients. I would like to ask for your further efforts so as to provide necessary care for those needing it. I also intend to make the Government provide necessary support and implement necessary measures without hesitation, by listening to voices on the ground, the voices of all of you.
 
To overcome this difficult situation, it is necessary for the Government to make a unified effort with local governments and health professionals like all of you, who are here today, in responding to the situation. Thank you for your support.”