Reinforcing Primary Care in Korea: Policy Implications, Data Sources, and Research Methods

Abstract

Korea has undergone rapid transformation, achieving significant advancements in both economic development and social security. Notably, the country achieved universal health coverage within a remarkably short period, representing a significant institutional milestone in healthcare. However, the healthcare system faces substantial challenges due to limited resources, a reliance on private healthcare providers, and a rapidly aging population which threatens its sustainability. Various efforts have been made to strengthen Korea's primary care environment. This study aims to examine the multifaceted healthcare landscape surrounding primary care in Korea, analyze associated systems to identify institutional limitations, and propose strategies to enhance primary care in the future. Additionally, it seeks to raise awareness of the current state of primary care in Korea and serves as an example for other countries striving to improve their primary care systems. Furthermore, this review provides a comprehensive overview of key data sources relevant to primary care research in Korea, such as the National Health Insurance Service claims data and the Korea Health Panel Survey. It also outlines practical research methodologies-from epidemiological studies to policy analyses-serving as a valuable reference for both domestic and international scholars seeking to enhance primary care systems.

Keywords: Health Care Reform; Health Policy; Primary Health Care; Public Health.

Fig. 1. Trends in healthcare utilization by age group. (A) Per capita healthcare benefits expenditure by age group for national health insurance beneficiaries. (B) Per capita number of total number of hospitalizations and outpatient visits at medical institutions, excluding pharmacy visits by age group for national health insurance beneficiaries.

Fig. 2. Policy classification by primary care functions tailored to the context of Korea.

LTC = long-term care.