Korean Job Discussion Forums

[aweitzm1]

Do international clinics/hospitals accept the NHIC plan? I read that some clinics do not accept it and a visit to them could be expensive?

I am thinking of purchasing International Medical Insurance to supplement the NHIC as it has been recommended to me. However, the policies are expensive. I am a young healthy person.

How important is it to have another form of insurance for a foreigner?

Any feedback would be great.

[vuniwai]

Hi,
I was worried about the same thing when I got here too. I have seasonal issues with my skin and wanted to see a dermatologist. So I called the Ulsan University International Clinic made an appointment, saw the doctor and paid 180,000won. At first it didn't bother me as this is similar to what I would have had to pay back in Sydney. But then I told a Korean co-worker about this and she was stunned at how much I had paid. She then took me to a private dermatologist, who spoke reasonable English and was able to help me even more. The best part about this was I only paid 4600 won. I was stunned and couldn't believe it. So now I am going every week lol.
So to answer your question, I think that the international clinics are an option and your right, some don't accept the health plan, like the Ulsan clinic, however, I believe you can claim it back later. This is what my co-worker is trying to find out for me. But, my suggestion to you is to see local doctors and ask your Korean co-workers to point you in the right direction. Doctors here are a lot cheaper than what we might be used to back home.
I don't have internation medical insurance and don't intend to get it.
Ihope this helps.