Korean Job Discussion Forums

[thewolf]

I will be attending a mandatory doctor appointment next week. I understand this is permissible because of the Korean National Health Insurance.

My employer (I work at a hagwon) has been vague about the procedures. We are aware of a blood test and I fully expect a drug test.

Just wondering: has anyone found this check-up to be too invasive and did it cause trouble or discomfort at work?

I'm slightly concerned because I take an anti-depressant, which I did not disclose when I began working. Given the shady nature of business at a hagwon, I just want to be prepared for personal inquisition.

[timhorton]

The examination includes a drug test, blood test, chest x-rays, and other general checks. The form didn't mention anything about brains...so many of us are still ok :=)

[ChuckECheese]

There are no such a thing as mandatory doctor's appointment (phyiscal).

You're not in the military. You're working at a hagwon. If this is arranged by your boss, tell him/her that you refuse to do it.

[thewolf]

it certainly makes me uncomfortable that my employer scheduled a physical for me and has access to my medical records. jeeez, no doctor-patient confidentiality here.

if we don't go, there is a substantial fine. they've said it is "mandatory". it's really kind of unsettling.

has anyone encountered this and refused to go?

[ChuckECheese]

[polonius]

I would certainly decline. I haven't encountered it. I believe that public school teachers must have a medical, but those files are still kept confidential. If he says it is mandatory, and you still want to work there, offer to have it done at a clinic of your chosing, at his cost, and the doctor will simply issue a clean bill of health.

That does suck.

[chris_J2]

Ummm...I didn't have to submit to any medical exam at my public school. But the teachers did ask me privately if I had any medical conditions. To which I truthfully responded, no. Your word is important in Korea afaia. I guess they're concerned that you may have a communicable disease which could be passed on to your students or co-teachers?

[hellofaniceguy]

Your employer will have access to your medical file...nothing is private in korea....money talks and B.S. walks.
Unless you have something serious that you are aware of...I would not have the check up done. It is NOT required by law.

[Poemer]

I politely refused a "mandatory" doctor's visit at my place of employment. I said I was in perfect health, that there was no need for me to see a doctor and thanked them for their concern. They never brought it up again.

[jaderedux]

[Young FRANKenstein]

[mehamrick]

I got mine the other day at my public school along with 11 of the other Korean teachers.

ahhh well I get a day off to go do it at least..

[Wrench]

[Horangi Munshin]

I have the piece of paper to get my test done. I have to do it before the 30th of June.

Why would anyone elect to have a colonoscopy! They are only 80000won with national insurance anyway.

[TheBrain]

OP- It is NOT mandatory.