Jangsu County to Provide Financial Support for Artificial Knee Joint Surgery for Seniors Aged 65 and Over

Up to 1.2 Million Won Per Knee

Jangsu County in North Jeolla Province announced on the 18th that it will continue to provide financial support for artificial knee joint surgery for seniors aged 65 and older this year.

The program targets recipients of basic living subsidies or those in the lower income bracket aged 60 and above, as well as individuals aged 65 and over whose health insurance premiums are at or below 150% of the median income. Applicants must have resided in Jangsu County for at least one year and must be diagnosed as needing knee joint replacement surgery (knee joint arthroplasty).

Jang Sungun recently visited a senior center to explain support for knee artificial joint surgery costs and related matters. Provided by Jangsu County

The support covers up to 1.2 million won for one knee and up to 2.4 million won for both knees, including examination fees, medical expenses, and surgery costs that fall under the patient's out-of-pocket payment.

This initiative is a self-funded project by Jangsu County, which has so far provided support to 77 individuals for 104 cases, receiving a positive response from residents.

Applicants must submit the required documents, including a diagnosis (medical opinion) issued within the past month prior to surgery, a copy of their health insurance card or health insurance eligibility certificate, a health insurance premium payment certificate, and a copy of their resident registration, to the public health center or the nearest town or township office, health subcenter, or health clinic.

Since last month, the county has been actively promoting the program by visiting 38 senior centers in the area to provide detailed information about the project and the application process. Leaflets and promotional materials have also been distributed to ensure that seniors can easily access the information.

Choi Hunsik, the county governor, stated, "Through this promotional campaign, we aim to strengthen direct communication with seniors and encourage timely surgery for knee osteoarthritis, a common geriatric disease, to do our utmost for the health management of the elderly."