Serving as the Final Treatment Center for Critical and Emergency Patients
Establishing a U.S. Corporation and Providing 24/7 Pediatric Care
Notable Achievements in Social Contribution Activities
Andong Hospital, operated by the Gyeongbuk Andong Medical Foundation, announced its major achievements to mark its 43rd anniversary on May 20.
The hospital is being recognized for presenting a 'future model for regional healthcare,' as it simultaneously pursues three goals: providing critical emergency care, fostering regional coexistence, and expanding globally as a key medical institution in northern Gyeongbuk.
Since its opening in 1982, Andong Hospital has served as the designated regional emergency medical center for northern Gyeongbuk, fulfilling its role as the final treatment facility for severe emergency patients.
In evaluations by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, it is the only hospital in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk area to receive an A grade as a regional emergency medical center for eight consecutive years. The hospital is equipped with government-certified specialized centers, including an emergency medical helicopter (doctor helicopter), a regional trauma center, a regional cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease center, and a regional psychiatric emergency medical center.
The hospital's efforts to improve the medical environment are also noteworthy. Since January, it has implemented '24/7 pediatric care by specialists,' addressing gaps in holiday and nighttime pediatric services. This initiative contributes to improving residential conditions and responding to population decline.
Andong Hospital is also focusing on improving medical access for people with disabilities. It has been designated both as a 'disability-friendly health screening institution' and as the 'Gyeongbuk Regional Dental Clinic for the Disabled,' providing integrated health screenings and specialized dental care for people with disabilities. The hospital is taking the lead in creating an inclusive medical environment.
The expansion of medical infrastructure is progressing rapidly. Last year, the hospital relocated and expanded its health screening center to a new annex spanning three floors, equipping it with the latest devices and advanced diagnostic systems. In May, it opened a new ward (43 beds) at the Andong Nursing Hospital branch to address the needs of an aging society.
Additionally, the hospital is promoting digital transformation of its medical environment by introducing a next-generation hospital information system (HIS) and renewing its website.
Andong Hospital's achievements in overseas expansion are also noteworthy. The hospital recently established a corporation (TNEC) in the United States and is launching a health tour program for Korean residents there.
This program, which combines health screenings, tourism, accommodation, and meals, is contributing to revitalizing the local economy. As such, the overseas expansion of local medical institutions is being highlighted as a new model that links regional healthcare with economic development.
The hospital has also implemented employment policies to address population aging. Through the 'post-retirement continuous employment system,' employees who pass health screenings and work evaluations after the age of 60 can continue to work until the age of 70. This system is having a positive effect on employment stability and the continuity of economic activity.
A positive cycle is also being observed, where recruitment of talent leads to an increase in the local population. Of the 254 new nurses hired in 2025, 195 (77%) are from outside the region, and their settlement is contributing to the expansion of the local population and consumer base.
The hospital continues its social contribution activities. During the recent wildfire in northern Gyeongbuk, Andong Hospital took the lead in regional recovery by providing 100 million won in donations, 250 refrigerators worth 100 million won, and 200 mats for evacuees as emergency support.
Chairman Kang Sinhong stated, "Over the past 43 years, the 2,000 employees of Andong Medical Foundation have prioritized patient safety and life in order to repay the trust of the local community," adding, "We will continue to grow with the region and develop as a hospital that fulfills its social responsibilities."
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