South Korea launches primary healthcare pilot amid subsidy concerns

South Korea is launching a community-based primary healthcare innovation pilot project aimed at shifting the medical focus from treatment to prevention and management. Starting on the 29th, 120 selected clinics nationwide will participate in the program, providing comprehensive services to residents aged 50 and older. These services include health screenings, nutritional and exercise counseling, and connections to community care resources. The program utilizes a multidisciplinary team approach, including doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and social workers.

However, the transition has sparked significant concern regarding the restructuring of existing chronic disease management systems. While the government is expanding the number of chronic disease management centers, it has proposed a total cut to the 5.21 billion won budget previously used for medical and pharmaceutical expense support for registered hypertension and diabetes patients. Experts warn that this could impact approximately 450,000 elderly patients.

Critics argue that the small subsidies for medical and pharmacy fees serve as a critical mechanism to encourage regular clinic visits and medication adherence. There are concerns that replacing these direct supports with digital-based health incentive programs may create barriers for elderly and vulnerable populations who may struggle with app-based authentication and health activity verification.