Gyeongsan City Implements Full Exemption of Medical Treatment Fees at Public Health Institutions for Citizens Aged 65 and Older

Over 57,000 Seniors to Benefit
Improved Access to Healthcare and Reduced Financial Burden Expected

Gyeongsan City (Mayor Cho Hyunil) announced that, starting from January 1, it will fully implement a system exempting out-of-pocket payments for insured medical treatment items at public health institutions for citizens aged 65 and older, in order to reduce the medical expenses burden for the local senior population.

Previously, the city revised the "Ordinance on the Collection of Medical Fees and Charges at Gyeongsan City Health Center, etc." after consultation with the Ministry of Health and Welfare on the social security system for 2025. As a result, approximately 57,000 people (as of November last year, the population aged 65 and older was 57,716) are now able to benefit from reduced medical costs.

With this ordinance revision, citizens aged 65 and older who are registered residents of Gyeongsan City will be exempt from out-of-pocket payments for medical treatment at health centers in areas with the separation of prescription and dispensing (Health Center, Hayang, Jinryang, Amnyang, Wacheon, Jain Health Branches). In the exception areas (Yongseong, Namsan, Namcheon Health Branches) and 10 community health clinics, both the out-of-pocket payments for medical treatment and medication will be fully exempted.

In addition, the city has expanded the free influenza vaccination program, which was previously provided to those aged 65 and older, to include citizens aged 60 and older since last year, thereby further strengthening practical support for a healthy later life.

Cho Hyunil, Mayor of Gyeongsan City, stated, "The system exempting out-of-pocket payments for medical treatment for citizens aged 65 and older may seem like a small change, but I believe it will greatly benefit the lives of our seniors. We will continue to do our utmost to promote various public health policies and enhance well-being so that seniors can enjoy a comfortable retirement."