J Korean Med Assoc.  2024 Apr;67(4):226-228. 10.5124/jkma.2024.67.4.226.

Disease prevention measures applicable to primary healthcare clinics

• Kang JH

• KMID: 2554176
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2024.67.4.226

Abstract

Background
Primary healthcare is a cornerstone of the healthcare system, playing a vital role in addressing individual healthcare needs, and organizing and strengthening the national healthcare system. Owing to the rapid growth in healthcare demand and the treatment-focused approach, primary healthcare may face challenges in providing preventive healthcare.
Current Concepts
Disease prevention measures in primary healthcare including health education, nutrition counseling, and immunization have demonstrated clinical benefits such as increased life expectancy. Therefore, it is imperative to revise the insurance system and educate individuals on disease prevention practices to reduce disease incidence and control soaring medical expenses. Furthermore, it has been observed that underestimated fees for medical consultation and the absence of compensation for disease prevention measures in primary healthcare may have inadvertently led to excessive prescriptions, while counseling and education are insufficient. Unlike the fee-for-service system in South Korea, the United States has implemented the Affordable Care Act, which offers reimbursement for evidence-based preventive care activities, thus encouraging disease prevention measures.
Discussion and Conclusion
South Korea’s healthcare system has undergone a shift towards treatment-focused care due to a rapid increase in medical demand. However, it may be necessary to revise the insurance system and educate individuals on disease prevention practices to reduce disease incidence and medical expenses.

Keyword

Primary health care; Health care system; Health insurance; Republic of Korea; 일차의료; 보건의료체계; 건강보험; 대한민국