Ulsan City to Strengthen Nighttime and Holiday Care for Pediatric Emergency Patients

Establishment of a 24-Hour Emergency Medical System at Ulsan University and More

Ulsan City is strengthening the foundation for pediatric emergency patient care.

To address the issue of medical service gaps during nighttime hours, Ulsan City has established and is operating a 24-hour, year-round pediatric emergency care system as part of its countermeasures.

This year, Ulsan City supported Ulsan University Hospital, a regional emergency medical center, with 1 billion KRW in city funds for personnel expenses to build a 24-hour pediatric emergency medical system, which began operation in March.

As a result of the operation, the average monthly number of pediatric and adolescent patients under 18 increased to 682, up 208 patients (43.5%) from 474 before the system was implemented, showing tangible outcomes.

Ulsan City plans to provide another 1 billion KRW in support next year.

Additionally, considering residents' living areas and the distribution of medical resources, the Emergency Medical Committee reviewed and designated Central Hospital and Ulsan Hospital as regional emergency medical centers to strengthen emergency medical infrastructure.

In particular, following the designation as a regional emergency medical center, Ulsan Hospital, which previously lacked pediatric and adolescent specialists, hired two pediatric specialists starting from the 1st of this month and began outpatient pediatric and adolescent care.

Thirteen hospitals operating emergency rooms, including Donggang Hospital, are also providing 24-hour pediatric emergency care.

Ulsan City is promoting 264 hospitals and clinics operating pediatric and adolescent departments (256 on Saturdays, 25 on Sundays) through the websites of Ulsan City and district health centers to alleviate the inconvenience of medical care for pediatric emergency patients during late-night and holiday hours.

An official from Ulsan City stated, “We plan to continuously strive to improve the emergency medical environment for pediatric emergency patients.”