Doctors in Korea are highly respected, almost venerated, and as such are not used to answering patients’ questions or to providing an explanation of their treatment. Seeking a second opinion is not common and this may offend some doctors.
Doctors in international clinics are more accustomed to Western attitudes however and will probably more readily understand a patient’s wish to be actively involved in the process of diagnosis and treatment.
Some doctors, even those who have been trained abroad, still tend to give the worst case scenario, which sometimes shocks expat patients. Don’t panic: ask questions and use your best judgement regarding tests and treatments.
Note that Asians do not have the same sense of privacy as in the West; you may even be examined by a doctor in the presence of other patients. If this is an issue for you, you can ask to have a screen put up. Staff will usually comply where possible.
Update 17/05/2010
Expatriate health insurance in South Korea
With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Seoul is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in South Korea So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!
Cigna is one of the world's biggest international insurers with more than 30 years' experience in providing global health insurance across 200 countries and territories. They have access to more than 1.65 million hospitals, physicians, clinics and specialists worldwide.
Cigna Global's flexible plans are specifically designed for expats and globally mobile individuals who move to South Korea. All their plans can be tailored to your individual requirements in South Korea, always finding the right healthcare solution, whatever the situation and budget.
Getting a health insurance quote
Create your perfect plan with Cigna and combine the reassurance of comprehensive inpatient cover with the flexibility of optional extra benefits.
Click on the button to access the online tool and get a quote in 2 minutes.