The South Korean government is prioritizing integrated medical, nursing, and care support as a key welfare policy under the current administration. This initiative is designed to ensure that individuals in need, particularly the elderly, can access comprehensive services in their own communities, thereby reducing the burden on families and enhancing the sustainability of the care system. The Ministry of Health and Welfare, led by First Vice Minister Lee Se-ran, is conducting on-site visits and consultations to assess readiness and gather feedback from local stakeholders. The focus is on regions with weak service infrastructure, such as rural and mountainous areas, to bridge existing gaps.
Bonghwa County in North Gyeongsang Province, where 45.6% of the population is aged 65 or older, is a primary beneficiary of this policy due to its super-aged demographic and dispersed population. The area faces significant challenges in accessing medical and care services, compounded by the absence of a regional social service agency. The integrated care model includes tailored support for daily living, safety, social participation, and education, with new short-term intensive services for recently discharged patients. Collaboration between public health centers and private clinics is being established to deliver home-based medical care.
Implementation began with regional consultations from February 6 to 19, 2024, and site visits including Bonghwa on March 6, following an earlier visit to Ongjin County. By the end of 2025, Bonghwa will have completed a pilot project, enacted relevant ordinances, and formed an integrated care team, with full-scale service linkage starting in 2026. Across North Gyeongsang Province, 18 out of 22 cities and counties have enacted ordinances and assigned dedicated staff, with research underway to develop region-specific care models, expected to conclude in April 2024.
Frequently asked questions include how the integrated care system addresses regional disparities and what specific services are provided. The policy seeks to ensure that local characteristics are reflected in service delivery and that public infrastructure and funding are expanded to close gaps. Another common question is how beneficiaries are identified; in Bonghwa, big data from the National Health Insurance Service is used to select individuals with complex medical and care needs. The government is committed to ongoing consultation and infrastructure development to ensure the success of integrated care in vulnerable regions.
The article highlights a strategic approach by the South Korean government to address the needs of aging populations in rural and mountainous regions like Bonghwa. By focusing on integrated care and leveraging both public and private resources, the policy aims to reduce disparities and ensure that vulnerable groups receive comprehensive support. The use of big data for beneficiary selection and the emphasis on local consultation are notable strengths. Continued investment and adaptation to local conditions will be essential for the program’s success.