Govt. to temporarily raise health insurance payments to hospitals for Chuseok holiday


President Yoon Suk Yeol announced during a Cabinet meeting in Seoul that the government will increase health insurance payments to hospitals temporarily for the upcoming Chuseok holiday. This decision aims to better compensate hospitals for their services and prevent disruptions in emergency medical care. President Yoon addressed concerns about potential disruptions to the medical system during the extended holiday, which begins later this week, due to a majority of junior doctors protesting a sharp increase in the medical school admission quota since February. To ensure the smooth operation of the emergency medical system and alleviate public concerns, the government will collaborate with provincial governments to implement special measures during the Chuseok holiday. Additionally, a two-week emergency medical period will be designated, starting Wednesday, and on-call staff will be assigned to major hospitals to guarantee access to medical services throughout the holiday. President Yoon also announced a significant temporary increase in health insurance fees, such as consultation and prescription fees, to express appreciation for the dedication of medical professionals. Furthermore, consultation fees for specialists at regional emergency medical centers will be raised to 3.5 times the usual rate. The health ministry anticipates that nearly 8,000 hospitals and community clinics will offer medical services during the Chuseok holiday, more than double the number available during the Lunar New Year holiday in February.


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