Technological innovations in the health sector in South Korea
1. National Health Insurance in South Korea:
South Korea stands out for its health system, which covers 98% of the population through the National Health Insurance (NHI), a combination of public and private services. This health model provides accessible primary care, focused on equity and prevention. In addition, the country has achieved universal coverage financed by contributions from workers, employers and the government. The NHI is one of the most efficient systems, with care costs representing only 8.4% of GDP.
2. Public Health Spending in 2023:
Public health spending in South Korea reached 70.8 billion euros in 2023, representing 6.25% of GDP. This increase reinforces the country's commitment to health, also reflected in the increase in per capita spending, which stood at 1,917 euros. Despite a decrease in absolute terms compared to the previous year, the trend is positive, with an increasing percentage of public investment going to health.
3. Health Information Exchange in South Korea:
South Korea has implemented an advanced electronic health information exchange system that allows patients to share their medical records between institutions. This system has been key to improving healthcare, reducing costs and ensuring the security of personal data. Supported by legal standards and economic incentives, the interoperability model has transformed the healthcare sector, benefiting millions of patients.
4. Drug Reimbursement Reform in South Korea:
Reforms to the drug reimbursement system in South Korea have significantly improved accessibility to innovative treatments. In 2022, the average reimbursement time for brand-name drugs was 620 days, which represented a significant improvement from more than 1,000 days a decade ago. This reform has been fundamental in accelerating the introduction of treatments for serious diseases such as cancer and rare diseases.
5. CAMCOR Services Related to Advances in Health:
• Public policy advice: Data-based strategies to optimize health spending.
• Consulting on digitalization of medical systems: Support in the implementation of information exchange systems and interoperability standards.
• Consulting on international reimbursements: Evaluation and optimization of reimbursement processes in international markets, with special emphasis on South Korea.
• Training in data protection: Training in the ethical and secure management of health data.
• Consulting on risk sharing agreements (RSA): Support in the implementation of agreements for innovative medicines and specialized treatments.
6. Healthcare Innovation: The Path to Excellence
South Korea's healthcare system has positioned itself as one of the most advanced and efficient in the world, thanks to its comprehensive approach that combines universal coverage, the digitalization of medical information, and a continuous reform in drug reimbursement processes. These advances have been key to ensuring accessible and quality care for the entire population. CAMCOR is in a unique position to advise companies and organizations seeking to enter the South Korean market, taking advantage of its knowledge of public policies, healthcare digitalization, and reimbursement processes.
In addition, it has collaborated in strengthening technological integration processes in international health systems, improving the accessibility and effectiveness of medical treatments globally. More information at:
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