Jeonju City, South Korea, is launching a comprehensive public health initiative in , focusing on preventative care, vulnerable population support and mental wellbeing. The city’s public health center outlined six key strategies aimed at fostering a healthier and happier community, with a particular emphasis on addressing the challenges of an aging population and promoting early intervention for chronic diseases.
Prioritizing Preventative Health and Healthy Lifestyles
A core component of the initiative centers on creating an environment that encourages healthy living. This includes new programs targeting childhood obesity, with a “Healthy Care Playground” project designed for elementary school students at risk. The program aims to improve children’s physical health and boost self-esteem through engaging activities. Beyond childhood, the city plans to implement a “frailty prevention management project” offering tailored healthcare services across the lifespan, from adulthood through old age. This will involve “luxury health classes” focused on building muscle mass for adults under 65 and “silver health classes” designed to improve flexibility and balance for seniors, promoting physical function and fall prevention.
Strengthening Support for Vulnerable Populations
Recognizing the growing needs of its aging population, Jeonju City is bolstering its support systems for vulnerable groups. A key element is the development of an integrated care home medical center, responding to increasing demand for coordinated medical, nursing, and care services. This center will collaborate with existing home medical services to ensure elderly and disabled residents can maintain healthy lives within their communities. The city also plans to focus on oral health, particularly for individuals with dementia, by promoting oral examinations, counseling, and establishing a network of “dementia-safe dental clinics.” Customized oral care services will also be provided for seniors over 65 with limited mobility, including preventative measures like hygiene education and fluoride application.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Jeonju City is also prioritizing mental health, aiming to become “Korea’s Best City for Mental Health.” Efforts will include expanding community care capabilities through the designation of additional “Dementia Safety Villages” and “Life Respect Safety Villages.” The city will also broaden access to mental health services through initiatives like the “Visiting Mind Healing Project,” “Mind Safety Bus,” and circuit counseling, all designed to help residents recover and maintain their mental wellbeing. Existing dementia prevention activities and tailored support programs will continue.
Infectious Disease Preparedness and Expanded Vaccinations
The city is strengthening its infectious disease response system, expanding the scope of national vaccination support in . Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination will be extended to include male adolescents aged 12, establishing a gender-neutral prevention system. The age range for influenza vaccination will be expanded from 6 months to 14 years of age for the season.
Enhancing Healthcare Access and Emergency Services
Jeonju City is committed to ensuring citizens have access to stable medical services, particularly in emergency situations. The city plans to designate and manage emergency medical institutions and will continue operating its “Moonlight Children’s Hospital,” providing after-hours care for children and adolescents with mild symptoms. Public late-night pharmacies, offering medication purchases and consultations, will also continue to be supported. These efforts aim to establish a robust medical safety net for the community.
Support for Families and Reproductive Health
The city is expanding support for prospective parents, building on existing assistance for in vitro fertilization and artificial insemination. New support will be provided for frozen egg thawing costs, easing the financial burden on couples undergoing fertility treatment. The “Oriental Medicine Infertile Couple Support Project” will offer acupuncture, herbal acupuncture, and herbal medicine treatments for up to 1.8 million won per person, for eligible couples.
Kim Shin-seon, head of the Jeonju City Public Health Center, stated that the city will “do our best to provide better public health care services to citizens by cooperating with the local community with the goal of preventing diseases and improving the health of citizens.” This comprehensive approach reflects a commitment to proactive healthcare and a focus on improving the overall wellbeing of the Jeonju community.
