Telehealth in South Korea: What People Want and Will Pay For

South Korea has been pushing hard into telehealth. The COVID-19 pandemic pushed the country to quickly approve telemedicine in 2020. The government then launched a test run in 2023. As the pandemic eases, it is crucial to figure out what makes people willing to use and pay for telemedicine and teleconsultation. This is key for shaping future policies and services. There is a gap in knowledge. Most studies don't look into how people's preferences change across different medical fields or user groups. This is a big deal because telehealth isn't one-size-fits-all. What works for mental health might not work for physical check-ups. Let's break it down. Telemedicine lets doctors treat patients remotely. Teleconsultation is like a virtual chat with a doctor. Both can be game-changers, but only if people are on board. This means they need to be willing to use these services and also pay for them. People's readiness to use and pay for telehealth varies. Some might love the convenience, while others might be skeptical about the quality of care. Age, tech-savviness, and even the type of medical issue can play a role. For example, younger folks might be more open to telehealth than older adults. But, older adults might need it more for chronic conditions. The government's next move is crucial. They need to gather more data on people's preferences. This isn't just about technology. It's about understanding human behavior and adapting services to meet real needs. The goal is to create a telehealth system that's accessible, affordable, and actually used by the people who need it. In the end, telehealth is more than just a trend. It's a tool that can revolutionize healthcare. But for it to work, it needs to be designed with the users in mind. This means listening to their concerns, understanding their needs, and adapting services accordingly. It's a big task, but it's worth it for a healthier, more connected South Korea.