Korean Job Discussion Forums

eac02 · Joined: 23 Jan 2008

What are your views on national health insurance we are provided? I've heard mixed reviews about it.
Is it enough or do you carry an additional policy in case of an emergency? I'm wondering because I've only had to go the doctor for small things but I know a couple people who had more serious problems and they have little good to say about it.
How does it compare to the insurance in your home country?

Thanks in advance for any/ all responses. And please elaborate below if you can.

byrddogs · Joined: 19 Jun 2009 Location: Shanghai

red_devil · Joined: 30 Jun 2008 Location: Korea

As far as getting sick with flu or cold and going in for checkup and getting a prescription it's GREAT. I think for the entire check up plus anti-biotics i paid like $20. Since you can do appointments online and all that, it's very slick system.

proustme · Joined: 13 Jun 2009 Location: Nowon-gu

Sadebugo1 · Joined: 11 May 2003

Received a diagnosis for measles, turns out it was chicken pox. Incorrect treatment for three days. Nuff said.

Sadebugo
http://travldawrld.blogspot.com/

byrddogs · Joined: 19 Jun 2009 Location: Shanghai

eac02 · Joined: 23 Jan 2008

Mr. Pink · Joined: 21 Oct 2003 Location: China

Here is what I love: lots of little clinics that specialize in areas that back in Canada I would need a referral for, and I would be put on a HUGE waiting list.

When I have a plugged nose and an infection, I can go see a ear, nose, and throat specialist and get all the crap sucked out. I can't put into words how great that feels when you are not able to breath and 10mins later, clear breathing!

Compared to America it probably sucks, but compared to Canada I love having access to specialists.

Another case in point: dermatologists: the one that I had in Canada carved me like a Christmas turkey. In Korea, they have state of the art lasers and are much better.

Unposter · Joined: 04 Jun 2006

There can be a huge difference in quality between smaller cities and larger cities and smaller clinics and large hospitals. Korea's major hospitals are world class.

The most important thing to remember is that if you go to a large hospital without a referal from a local clinic, you will have to pay a surcharge.

Also, if you are diagnosed with a disease, the fee for your care is reduced. But, you have to pay a much higher price until a doctor "diagnoses" you with a problem.

Compared to the U.S., health care costs in Korea are extremely affordable. And, as far as I can tell, there are no shortages of doctors here so you do not have to wait for most/any procedure.