From 2026, Up to 150% of Median Income Eligible
Maximum Support of 1 Million Won Per Knee
For many elderly individuals who have postponed surgery due to the cost, relief is finally in sight.
Gijang County in Busan is significantly expanding the eligibility for its support program covering knee replacement surgery costs to ease the medical expenses burden on seniors.
On December 23, Gijang County (Governor Jung Jongbok) announced that starting in 2026, it will become the first in Busan to expand the "Senior Knee Replacement Surgery Cost Support Program."
The key change is broadening the eligibility, which was previously limited to basic livelihood security recipients and those in the lower-income bracket under the national program, to now include seniors with household incomes up to 150% of the median income.
This program will be implemented year-round starting January 1, 2026, funded by Gijang County's own budget. The eligibility criterion is a monthly income of 5,898,987 won or less for a two-person household in 2025, allowing a wider range of seniors to benefit from the program.
Applicants must be 60 years or older, have been registered residents of Gijang County for at least one year, and have been diagnosed with the need for "knee joint replacement surgery" at a medical institution. Applications must be submitted before the surgery. The support amount is up to 1 million won per knee, provided within the scope of the patient's out-of-pocket expenses.
To apply, seniors must visit the health center before surgery and submit an application form and diagnosis. Eligibility will be verified, and those who qualify will be confirmed as recipients. After undergoing surgery, they can claim the support funds within 90 days. However, non-covered items, outpatient treatment costs, and medical expenses incurred before being selected as a recipient are excluded. It is also not possible to receive duplicate support from other medical aid programs, such as indemnity insurance, the Senior Medical Sharing Foundation, or emergency welfare medical support.
Governor Jung Jongbok stated, "Many seniors endure discomfort in daily life due to knee pain but are unable to undergo surgery at the appropriate time because of the financial burden. Through this program, we hope to improve medical access for seniors who have delayed treatment for economic reasons and help them enjoy a healthier and more active later life."
For more details about the "Knee Replacement Surgery Cost Support Program," please contact the Urban Health Team at Gijang County Health Center.
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