South Korea is responding to the challenges of an aging population and increasing complex care demands by introducing a nationwide ‘community integrated care’ policy. This initiative aims to unify previously fragmented medical, long-term care, and daily support services within local communities. The Ministry of Health and Welfare convened its third Integrated Care Policy Committee to finalize a roadmap for this program. The policy is designed to allow citizens to receive medical and care services where they live, improving accessibility and quality of life. The government has prepared for this launch through pilot projects and extensive planning.
The policy initially targets elderly individuals, older adults with disabilities, and those under 65 with severe medical needs. In its first phase, 30 types of services across four sectors—medical care, health management, long-term care, and daily living support—will be integrated. Services include expanded home medical visits, dementia and chronic disease management, and support for discharged patients. Smart devices will be used for health monitoring, and physical activity programs for seniors and disabled persons will be introduced. Limits on home nursing, home care, and home bathing will be increased, and emergency care and housing support will be strengthened.
The implementation roadmap is divided into three stages: introduction (2026–2027), stabilization (2028–2029), and advancement (2030 and beyond). The first stage focuses on building cooperation between central and local governments, establishing integrated support councils, and expanding training for personnel and service providers. The second stage will add new services such as home rehabilitation, home nutrition, hospital accompaniment, and integrated home nursing, while expanding eligibility to include those with severe mental illness. By 2030, the number of integrated services will double to 60, and the system will support care from frailty prevention to end-of-life.
Frequently asked questions include: Who can access these services? Initially, elderly people, older adults with disabilities, and those under 65 with high medical needs are eligible, with plans to expand to all disabled persons and those with severe mental illness. How does the application process work? Local governments assess individual care needs and medical requirements, then develop personalized support plans, aiming for automatic service linkage in the future. What is the expected impact? The policy is expected to reduce unnecessary institutionalization, improve care efficiency, and enhance quality of life for vulnerable populations.
Metaqsol opinion: South Korea’s community integrated care policy is a strategic response to demographic changes and rising care demands. By integrating medical, health, and daily support services, the government is prioritizing accessibility and quality for elderly and disabled citizens. The phased approach, with expansion from 30 to 60 service types by 2030, reflects a commitment to continuous improvement. Collaboration between central and local governments, along with performance-based budgeting and information systems, should enhance efficiency and outcomes. The policy’s focus on personalized care and reduction of unnecessary institutionalization is likely to benefit vulnerable populations significantly.