Ensuring Health and Safety During Korea's Traditional Celebration
The government of South Korea has designated January 22 to February 5 as the "Lunar New Year Emergency Medical Response Period," taking proactive measures to maintain robust medical services during the holidays. This initiative aims to alleviate strain on medical resources while ensuring timely and effective care for those in need.
Strengthening Emergency Medical Systems
To maintain seamless emergency medical services, the government will enhance the capabilities of emergency rooms and support staff. This includes increasing consultation fees for emergency specialists at regional and hub centers by up to 250% and offering additional incentives for critical procedures conducted at night or on holidays.
The government plans to operate 23 regional centers for severe and emergency cases while providing financial incentives to facilities that actively participate in emergency care. For the designated response period, the fee for night and holiday surgeries will increase by an additional 100%, bringing it to 300% of the usual rates at 181 regional centers.
Minimizing Emergency Room Overcrowding
To reduce the burden on emergency rooms, 115 fever clinics and 197 respiratory disease collaboration hospitals will be operational. These facilities will focus on treating respiratory illnesses, allowing emergency departments to concentrate on other critical cases.
In addition, the government will offer a 200,000 KRW admission support grant for COVID-19 patients admitted to collaboration hospitals, encouraging patient intake. Regional emergency medical facilities will receive an additional 15,000 KRW per consultation for non-severe emergency cases to help alleviate congestion in larger hospitals.
The government will also distribute informational materials to the public, detailing treatment options for common conditions such as colds and abdominal pain, to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits.
Tailored Responses for Specific Patient Groups
The government has implemented enhanced measures to address the unique needs of high-risk maternal and neonatal patients. A dedicated obstetrics and neonatal emergency team will operate within the central emergency medical center, with a comprehensive bed availability monitoring system in place.
Efforts include:
- Expanding neonatal intensive care unit capacity.
- Establishing hotline networks for high-risk maternal and neonatal care.
- Encouraging nighttime and holiday operations of pediatric hospitals and clinics.
For patients with severe cardiovascular and neurological conditions, 10 new regional centers will be designated to ensure 24-hour care. Emergency facilities will also prepare for acute conditions such as fractures, burns, and abdominal surgeries.
Utilizing Public and Private Medical Resources
During the Lunar New Year holidays, a comprehensive system will be in place to provide round-the-clock medical services:
- Over 400 emergency facilities nationwide will be staffed and managed by dedicated coordinators.
- Local public health centers and military hospitals will ensure that underserved areas have access to care.
For convenience, citizens can access detailed information about open hospitals and pharmacies through the emergency medical portal "E-gen" or call 129 or 120 for assistance.
Preventing Influenza and Respiratory Infections
As influenza cases continue to rise, the government encourages vaccinations and emphasizes the use of local clinics and fever centers for mild symptoms. Strict adherence to hygiene protocols, such as handwashing and mask-wearing, remains essential.
The Lunar New Year is a time of celebration, but it’s also a time when healthcare professionals work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the public. Let’s show our appreciation by supporting their efforts and using medical resources wisely.
Source: Korea Policy Briefing (www.korea.kr)
