Korean Job Discussion Forums

[s.tickbeat]

Hello!

I've got a nasty, nasty throat infection which I thought would go away on its own but hasn't. I need to see a doctor ASAP. Unfortunately, I don't have one of those health card thingies (I pay into the plan though, according to my director). I've been waiting patiently for one for about a month. So, does my ARC allow me medical care in the country, or do I need the health card thingy?

Likewise, if I am a bit screwed, anybody know the cost of a doctor's visit? Not like I need surgery or anything, just some antibiotics.

[blackjack]

without insurance maybe 10,000 max (that's won not dollars)

[s.tickbeat]

Oh my god thank you so much. I really just need a prescription.

[Milwaukiedave]

I would go anyway and if you have your ARC card, ask them to look up your health insurance. It's possible that the card is on its way and you already have a number. However, if your employer is dodgy, it's possible they haven't applied.

If you are sick, go get treatment before it gets worse. I think many of us experienced the same thing our first year in Korea.

The difference in price is not going to be severe and if the employer hasn't gotten you health insurance you should submit your receipts and ask for half of the money back (and tell them they better sign you up for National Health Care Insurance).

[Milwaukiedave]

Just a warning, it is possible they may offer you a shot (usually they will put it into your bottom cheek), which will help you get better faster. I would take it if that's what the doctor says you need.

[youtuber]

I am pretty sure that you are covered even though you don't have your card. Tell the hospital (or your director) to double check this for you.

[dory]

Yeah just take your ARC card. It's not gonna cost much for a doctor's visit anyway. He'll look down your throat, write you a Rx and you'll be on your way.

[crossmr]

if you can go to a local clinic rather than an international one it'll be much cheaper. A local doc will cost you less than 5000W, probably only like 3500 or 4000. At an international clinic they might claim you need to see a throat specialist and try to charge you 35000 to see the guy.

they'll only give you 3-5 days medicine max, probably won't be more than 10000 without insurance.

[Tbizz]

Ya I don't have insurance yet but I just went to the hospital for my horrible migraines. It cost me like 12,000 won for the visit and 15,000 for the medication (they would only prescribe 3 days worth). I'd say thats pretty damn good considering what'd I'd pay in the US.

[Kimchifart]

[b0101]

You are covered under health insurance from the first day of your contract.

Once you receive your card, you can go back to the dr. and pharmacy with your receipts and get reimbursed for what health insurance would have covered. Depending on the cost, it may or may not be worth your time to go back (as it's cheap to start with) ...but it's an option.

[Rteacher]

Korea's National Health Insurance is pretty good overall, but it only covers 55% the total cost of medical treatment (for stuff that's covered).

This article gives a good overview - and how it compares with other systems:
http://askakorean.blogspot.com/2010/01/healthcare-system-in-korea.html