Korean national health insurance is as advanced as its transportation system, and meeting the demands of its overpopulation requires a strong system to keep the population healthy and strong. South Korea is also known to be at the forefront of medical research, constantly pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge.
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Overview of Korea’s Medical System
Expats and their families who relocate to South Korea will discover a modern and homogeneous country rich in history and culture, also ancient traditions. Many expats will move to Seoul, the country’s capital and most populous city.
South Korea’s population now exceeds 51 million, with about 25 million living in Seoul alone. Foreigners will benefit from knowing that connecting to other major cities such as Daejeon, Daegu, and Busan. They will be easier and faster thanks to the country’s extensive network of road, rail, and ferry systems.
South Korea has the most modern and advanced medical system in Asia. The country has a large number of public and private health facilities that provide first-class medical care and treatment.
Medical professionals, from paramedics to state surgeons, are highly trained and experienced. Surprisingly, the treatment and services available across the country are close to, if not better than, international standards.
Once in South Korea, foreign travelers and expatriates have unlimited access to medical facilities if they need treatment. In addition, foreign residents are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance system immediately. Healthcare in South Korea is governed by the Korean National Health Insurance system.
What is the National Health Insurance System?
The NHI system is compulsory and mandated by Korean law. The system is operated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and is free for all residents, including expatriates. Regardless of nationality, background, or occupation.
This system ensures that most medical expenses are subsidized, including curative care, dental care. And prescription drugs for foreigners in public health hospitals and clinics. To become a member, resident aliens and foreigners must have an approved Alien Registration Card (ARC).
How to Apply National Health Insurance
Foreign workers and expatriates are legally required to participate in the program if they stay longer than six months. Upon arrival in South Korea. The new arrival must first apply for ARC before you can be eligible to enroll in the NHI system.
Registration can usually be done at the nearest immigration office, where the documents can be prepared and submitted. Advice on how to complete the procedure will be provided by your employer. Or the agent who handles your work permit.
One important thing to note is that it can take several months to receive your ARC. Meanwhile, the system does not cover expatriates. Therefore, it is wise to consider securing a private health insurance plan to cover medical costs.
How do Foreigners Contribute to the Korean National Health Insurance System?
Members of the scheme contribute through a social security tax that reflects their annual income. Coverage automatically extends to other family members and dependents.
The expat payment structure is slightly different. The employer pays 50% of the health insurance tax and the expat pays the remaining 50%. Foreigners still have to pay a small consultation fee if they seek treatment at a dentist or medical facility.
South Korea’s Public and Private Healthcare System
Private hospitals and clinics operate across the country. But the majority of facilities are located in Seoul and Busan.
With a few notable exceptions, such as those that are on the list below. There is little difference between the standard of health services and treatment provided by private and public facilities.
- Cost
The National Korean Health Insurance doesn’t cover treatment at private facilities and it’s also expensive. Koreans are usually the only ones who use private clinics and hospitals for treatments not covered by the NHIP system. It’s such as treatment for chronic illnesses and ailments such as cancer.
- Client
Due to the extra cost, private facilities are most popular with foreigners and wealthy Koreans. While this reduces waiting times for special procedures, waiting times at public facilities can be very long.
In general, as a foreigner. It is highly recommended that you take out private health insurance before moving to South Korea. There are a lot of health insurance plans to choose from. It helps cover medical costs and ensure access to the best hospital facilities in the country.
For international students studying in the country, private health insurance prices range from inexpensive plans to high-end coverage. To get the best comparison from the insurance market, it is worth consulting an international insurance broker.
What Are the Main Health Threats in South Korea?
Foreigners and visitors should be aware of the health risks associated with living in or visiting South Korea.
As the country becomes more urbanized, pollution and sanitation have become important issues. In addition to naturally occurring air pollution throughout the country. South Korea is also affected by seasonal “yellow dust,”. It consists of dust and sand particles that fly over the peninsula from China.
In general, first-time visitors to South Korea and East Asia may need to be updated or vaccinated before traveling. There are no particular diseases or infections to watch out for. But infections such as malaria, hepatitis A, and Japanese encephalitis occur occasionally.
Malaria, There is a small risk of contracting malaria in some rural areas. And expatriates are advised to take medication and wear appropriate clothing in affected areas. Malaria prophylaxis is widely available in clinics.
Hepatitis A is through food and water, but Japanese encephalitis is through the transmission process through mosquito bites. Precautions can be against both of these diseases, especially during the hot and humid summer months.
The above are mosquito-borne diseases due to the bite of infected mosquitoes. It is recommended to carry mosquito coils and avoid black clothing, which is said to attract mosquitoes.
Interested in Having Korean National Health Insurance?
South Korea has a high standard of medical facilities and clinics, both public and private. Hospitals in developed cities are often well equipped and modern in appearance, you must not be disappointed when you have Korea National Health Insurance.