A general support window that provides translation or consultation services to foreigners who are ill during their visit to Korea will open in the popular tourist and shopping neighborhood of Myeongdong. (Image : Pixabay)
SEOUL, March.1 (Korea Bizwire) – A general support window that provides translation or consultation services to foreigners who are ill during their visit to Korea will open in the popular tourist and shopping neighborhood of Myeongdong.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced that it will open the ‘Medical Korea Support Center’, which will provide consultation, translation, and legal services to foreign patients.
When the Korea Health Industry Development Institute conducted a survey on 238 facilities that accept foreign patients, ‘translation services’ (32.4 percent) turned out to be the most requested support the facilities needed in order to properly care for foreign patients. ‘Visa Issues’ (27.2 percent) and ‘consultation regarding medical disputes’ (23.3 percent) were also high on the list.
To solve the inconveniences, the ministry decided to open a support window in the Myeongdong area, and provide foreigners with information and services to improve their time in Korea.
By visiting or calling the Medical Korea Support Center (☎ 15777-129), consultation is provided in English, Chinese, Russian and Japanese. Arabic translation is also provided through the Middle Eastern center.
In addition, information on medical facilities, visa consultations, check-up reservations and guidelines for cosmetic surgery tax refunds will also be provided.
A legal specialist will help foreign patients with medical disputes, and illegal medical service brokers can be reported through the support center.
Authorities expressed that they hope to globalize Korean medicine, and have placed emphasis on providing support to foreign patients so that they do not experience inconvenience due to differences in language, culture and social systems.
By Francine Jung (francine.jung@kobizmedia.co.kr)
