South Korea Shifts Focus from ‘Emergency Response’ to Sustainable Healthcare System with Fee Adjustments adn Expanded Home Treatment Benefits
Seoul – South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare announced the conclusion of temporary health insurance support measures implemented to address recent healthcare system strains, signaling a transition towards a more stable and sustainable medical infrastructure. The move comes with adjustments to consultation and medication fees, alongside expanded benefits for critically ill pediatric patients receiving home treatment.
The government’s decision marks a turning point from crisis management to long-term system strengthening,following a period of emergency response. While a uniform price increase was avoided, initial consultation fees at clinics will rise by 0.76% (140 won),increasing from 18,700 won to 18,840 won,due to a (0.1%) increase in the conversion index. Hospital medication and dispensing fees will see increases ranging from 30-50%. These adjustments are targeted at items previously identified as having low compensation.
To alleviate the financial burden on families caring for critically ill children at home, the scope of medical expenses benefits has been broadened to include pulse oximeters, airway suction devices, and enteral nutrition pumps. Previously, coverage was limited to equipment like ventilators and oxygen concentrators. The Ministry of Health and Welfare stated this expansion will “help improve the treatment environment at home and the growth and advancement of patients,” and is “expected to have the effect of easing the economic burden.”
The Ministry emphasized a continued commitment to bolstering emergency and critical care capabilities and establishing a sustainable compensation system for essential medical infrastructure.
