Gangjin-gun Strengthens Health Management for Vulnerable Groups in Preparation for Heatwave

Promoting a Safe Summer through Home Visits, Phone Calls, and Text Message Services

[Gangjin=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-su] The Gangjin County Health Center in Jeonnam has strengthened its home health care services for 2,790 medically vulnerable individuals, including elderly living alone, those with mobility difficulties, and chronic disease patients, to help them have a healthy summer.

The health center's three visiting nurses and health officials from the town and township health institutions conduct one-on-one home visits, phone calls, text message services, and visits to local senior centers to educate on heat-related illness prevention measures and focus on basic health management such as blood pressure, blood sugar, body temperature checks, and health consultations.

They also promote telephone monitoring for proper responses, including self-management of chronic diseases and infectious disease prevention guidelines.

To prevent heat-related illnesses caused by heatwaves, it is essential to follow the three major health rules for heatwave preparedness: ▲ drink water frequently, ▲ stay cool, and ▲ rest during the hottest times of the day.

Especially for the elderly and chronic disease patients vulnerable to heatwaves, if symptoms such as dizziness, exhaustion, vomiting, or headaches occur, immediate assistance should be requested by calling 119 or emergency treatment should be received.

Seo Hyun-mi, director of the health center, stated, “Heatwaves can cause fatal harm to the elderly, chronic disease patients, or elderly living alone who are vulnerable to heat,” and added, “We will do our best to prevent accidents caused by heatwaves through health management education for heatwave preparedness.”

Gangjin=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-su