Health Insurance to Cover Five Rare and Intractable Disease Treatments from November
Published
The government announced that it will apply national health insurance to five treatments for rare and intractable diseases starting in November. Rare diseases are conditions that affect a very small number of patients, while intractable diseases are conditions that are difficult to cure completely with current medical knowledge. Treatments for these conditions are often expensive, and patients have long struggled with a heavy financial burden.
With this measure, patients using these treatments are expected to pay less out of pocket, as health insurance will now apply. Once insurance coverage is in place, patients will bear only a portion of the total treatment cost, while the rest will be supported by national health insurance. The government plans to announce more detailed guidance on the eligibility criteria for patients covered by insurance and the specific procedures in the future.
The medical community and patient groups expect that this decision will help improve access to treatment for patients with rare diseases. However, to actually receive treatment, patients must meet the prescription requirements and other conditions set by medical institutions, so it is advisable for patients to consult with their doctors to confirm whether they qualify.
The government has said it will continue to work to improve treatment conditions for patients with rare and intractable diseases. This extension of health insurance coverage is viewed as an important change that will reduce the financial burden on patients and their families and ensure they can receive the care they need.
Sources: 대한민국 정책브리핑
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