The South Korean government has launched a new initiative to allow local clinics to manage chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes on a yearly basis. This service aims to improve care and lower costs for patients.
Starting Monday, the Ministry of Health and Welfare will implement this management service at neighborhood clinics across the country.
Patients with hypertension and diabetes can now create personalized management plans through consultations at their local clinics. These plans will include comprehensive services such as education, counseling, and lifestyle improvement strategies, all on a one-year cycle.
This chronic disease management program was developed to enhance care for patients with hypertension and diabetes through continuous support at local clinics. It follows a five-year pilot project that demonstrated its effectiveness, leading to its nationwide rollout.
To encourage participation, the co-payment rate for these management services will be reduced from 30% to 20% of the outpatient statutory co-payment rate. Additionally, patients who adopt healthy lifestyles—such as regular walking or consistent engagement with clinic services—will be eligible for a support grant of up to 80,000 won (approximately $61) annually. These funds can be used at designated online shopping platforms or to offset medical expenses at clinics nationwide.
The Health and Welfare Ministry’s website features information about the new hypertension and diabetes management services, along with guidelines for the Healthy Lifestyle Support Program.
Bae Kyeong-take, director-general of the Health Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Health and Welfare, expressed hope that this initiative will empower patients to actively manage their conditions. “We want people with hypertension and diabetes to work closely with their local clinics to prevent complications and improve their health,” he said.
Bae also noted ongoing efforts to enhance the system for older adults who may struggle with using apps for managing their health subsidies.
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