Korean Job Discussion Forums

[re:cursive]

This is a question I asked and didn't get many answers to so now I can offer some of the answers myself I'm updating the information here in case anybody searches for something similar in the future.

Here's the original question (If anyone can answer the insurance questions go for it).

I've unexpectedly got to go and see a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis of an abnormality I have discovered. I did a bit of research online to find out what I may be in for and apparently the standard initial diagnostic procedure is:

1. A physical examination.
2. Ultrasound scan.
3. Blood test.

What I'm wondering is what kind of costs I'm looking at to get these things done here in Korea. I'm particularly concerned about the ultrasound scan. It sounds pricey and I'm not covered by any insurance medical or otherwise.

If these are expensive I am considering getting temporary medical insurance. Which brings me to the real question. If I go into the doctor tomorrow and get an examination and find out I do in fact have to get further, potentially expensive procedures, can I then go and apply for the standard 50/50 medical insurance offered by my school, or am I then classified as inelligible for coverage because I have a pre-existing condition? ie. Is it on the record?

I want to get this sorted out ASAP.

Any recommendations for good doctors who could give a reliable diagnosis would be appreciated as well. At the moment I'm thinking Samsung Medical Centre.

Cheers.

And here's what I found out:

I went to the Asan Medical centre who treated me well. I can recommend them.

My initial consultation (which was necessary in order to see a specialist) was about 37,000 won without insurance. I had insurance so got it for roughly half that figure.

The ultrasound scan was easy to get but not cheap. Unfortunatley it seems that ultrasound scans are not classified as a treatment so are not covered by medical insurance. Mine set me back 200,000 Won. On top of that was the fee for the consultation (35,000 won) which like my initial consultation was included in insurance and was halved.

All up for 2 consultation fees and an ultrasound scan I was out of pocket about 250,00 won.

And as an end note: I ended up being perfectly healthy. If anyone is searching for similar information in the future I hope you get the same good news.

[schwa]

Ultrasound is ubiquitous & not so costly. I recently took my cat to the vet who performed an ultrasound on her & didnt charge me anything.

Why dont you have medical coverage? Pick up national coverage now but be aware its not all-inclusive. I dont think a preexisting condition would void coverage but even with insurance you still incur fees (but mild by western standards).

Best luck with your diagnosis.