South Korea Caps Telemedicine at 30% Post-Emergency

2025-10-27 digitalcare

Seoul, Monday, 27 October 2025.
Following the end of the national health emergency, South Korea limits telemedicine to 30% of consultations, emphasizing a shift back to traditional healthcare for quality and safety.

Background and Regulatory Changes

The decision to cap telemedicine consultations at 30% in South Korea comes as the government shifts from emergency measures to a stable healthcare framework. The national health emergency, which had temporarily relaxed telemedicine regulations to accommodate increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, was officially lifted on 20 October 2025. This transition marks a significant regulatory change, aiming to address concerns about the quality of care and patient safety that have arisen with the extensive use of telehealth services during the crisis [1][2].

Implications for Healthcare Providers

With the reinstatement of telemedicine limits, healthcare providers in South Korea must adapt to new operational guidelines. The regulations specify that virtual consultations are capped at 30% of total patient visits, primarily affecting hospitals and higher-level facilities. Clinics and similar institutions are expected to continue offering remote care, albeit within the new limits. This move is seen as a way to ensure that in-person consultations remain the primary mode of healthcare delivery, maintaining consistent quality across medical services [1][3].

Technological and Environmental Considerations

Despite the regulatory rollbacks, the benefits of telemedicine remain evident, particularly in terms of technological integration and environmental impact. Remote consultations have been shown to reduce patient travel and associated carbon emissions, which is particularly significant as South Korea navigates its status as a ‘super-aging’ society with over 20% of its population aged 65 and older. Professor Masaoimi Nangaku of the University of Tokyo highlighted these environmental benefits at the Asia Telemedicine Society conference, noting the reduction in carbon emissions and medical waste [4][5].

Future of Telemedicine in South Korea

The shift back to traditional healthcare methods does not negate the potential for telemedicine to play a crucial role in future healthcare delivery. The Ministry of Health and Welfare is expected to continue exploring telehealth solutions as part of its long-term policy framework. This includes potential reforms to standardize emergency medical fee schedules and formalize telemedicine as a permanent fixture in South Korean healthcare. The ongoing discussions reflect a broader global trend towards integrating digital health solutions, aiming to balance accessibility with quality care [1][3][4].

Bronnen

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