The Ministry of Health and Welfare of South Korea has proposed amendments to the Emergency Medical Services Act and related regulations to enhance the safety and management of patient transport by ambulances. The revisions aim to strengthen oversight, adjust transport fees, and update technical and staffing requirements for ambulance operations. These changes reflect the government’s commitment to improving emergency medical services and ensuring safer conditions for patients during transit. The amendments incorporate provisions from the revised Emergency Medical Services Act, scheduled to take effect on April 2, 2027.
The new regulations will impact ambulance operators, emergency medical personnel, healthcare institutions, and patients requiring ambulance services. Notable requirements include the mandatory presence of at least two staff members, one of whom must be a certified emergency medical technician, for all patient transports, including non-emergency cases. Ambulance operators must submit real-time operational records via the AiR system, and vehicles must meet updated specifications, such as a minimum patient compartment length of 290 centimeters. Additionally, ambulances must be equipped with automatic epinephrine injectors for anaphylactic shock cases.
Implementation of these changes is set for March 18, 2026, with a public comment period running until that date. The Ministry will collect feedback from citizens and stakeholders before finalizing the amendments. Fee structures for ambulance services will be adjusted, including increases to base and additional charges, expanded nighttime surcharges, new holiday surcharges, and the introduction of waiting fees for delays exceeding 30 minutes at medical facilities. Operators must also submit documentation verifying staffing standards when applying for emergency patient transport business licenses.
Frequently asked questions include: What are the main changes for ambulance operators? Operators must ensure proper staffing, submit real-time records, and comply with updated vehicle and equipment standards. How can the public provide feedback on these amendments? Comments can be submitted to the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Disaster Medical Policy Division or via the National Legislative Participation Center until March 18, 2026. What new fees will apply? Ambulance service fees will increase, with new surcharges for nighttime, holidays, and waiting times at medical facilities.
The proposed amendments to South Korea’s ambulance regulations are well-targeted to address gaps in patient safety and operational oversight. By requiring real-time record submission and stricter staffing, the policy will likely improve transparency and accountability. Adjustments to fee structures and vehicle standards demonstrate a comprehensive approach to modernizing emergency medical services. The inclusion of a lengthy public comment period is a positive step, enabling stakeholders to contribute to the final policy design.