Jeongeup-si Supports 90% of Maternal and Newborn Health Care Out-of-Pocket Expenses

[Jeongeup=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Jae-gil] Jeongeup City, Jeonbuk (Mayor Yoo Jin-seop) announced on the 7th that it will support up to 90% of the out-of-pocket expenses for the Maternal and Newborn Health Care Support Project, which supports postpartum recovery for mothers and newborn care.

The 'Maternal and Newborn Health Care Support Project' is a program where health care workers visit families who have given birth to support the health and nutrition management of mothers and newborns, prepare meals for mothers, and manage laundry for mothers and newborns.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare is implementing an expansion of the eligibility for maternal and newborn health care service support from 120% to 150% of the median income as part of its childbirth encouragement policy.

However, even with government subsidies, out-of-pocket expenses remain a burden, and dividing eligibility based on income criteria has caused significant economic burdens for those outside the government support scope.

Accordingly, the city decided to fully support 90% of the out-of-pocket expenses within the standard service limit for all families with newborns residing in the region, regardless of income level, using city funds.

Through this support, the city expects to alleviate the economic burden on families with newborns in Jeongeup and to promote a positive atmosphere for pregnancy and childbirth encouragement.

The Maternal and Newborn Health Care Support Project can be applied for by visiting the Public Health Center's Maternal and Child Health Office or through the online welfare portal.

Applications are accepted from 40 days before the expected delivery date up to 30 days after delivery.

To apply for out-of-pocket expense support, applicants must submit required documents such as a resident registration certificate, receipt of out-of-pocket payment, and a copy of the bankbook to the Jeongeup Public Health Center within six months after the end of the maternal and newborn health care service.

Mayor Yoo Jin-seop said, “We will continue to develop community-based support policies that ensure healthy pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing to respond to changes in low birthrate and aging society and to provide practical help to families with newborns who are facing even greater difficulties due to COVID-19.”

Jeongeup=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Jae-gil gjg7070@asiae.co.kr