South Korean municipalities expand integrated community care services

Local governments in South Korea are expanding integrated community care programs to support elderly citizens and individuals with disabilities, allowing them to live in their familiar environments rather than relying solely on hospitals or long-term care facilities.

Hwacheon County is implementing a system that links medical care, nursing, housing, and daily life support. The program targets seniors aged 65 and older and people with disabilities who face difficulties in daily living. Services include home medical visits, AI-based health management, home modifications such as installing safety bars, and daily assistance like meal delivery and hospital accompaniment.

In Chungju City, the integrated care initiative has successfully identified approximately 600 citizens in its first six months, ranking first in the Chungbuk province for discovery rates. The city utilizes a proactive approach through home visits and consultations via local administrative centers. Chungju also employs technology, such as the ‘Smart 365 Carekeeper’ AI service, to monitor citizens living alone and prevent gaps in care.