When my father came to visit me for a month-long stay in South Korea, he thought he had prepared for every eventuality—until he realized he’d forgotten a vital part for his CPAP device. As someone who suffers from sleep apnea, a good night’s sleep without his CPAP was impossible. We were suddenly thrust into the confusing maze of Korea’s healthcare system, trying to find a supplier that stocked the part he needed. Fortunately, my father is a U.S. veteran and was able to find a medical supply store on Osan Air Force Base that had the CPAP part that he needed. However, not everyone in Korea has such access.

If you’ve ever found yourself scrambling to navigate healthcare or lifestyle necessities in a foreign land, you’re not alone. This blog post aims to guide you through the intricacies of securing CPAP device essentials in Korea.

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Medical Terms to Know

Before jumping into where to find CPAP supplies, learning a few terms may help you navigate your search more effectively.

The following key CPAP-related medical terms may be helpful when inquiring about CPAP devices.

• CPAP device/positive air pressure devices – 양압기 [yahng-ahp-ghi]
• CPAP accessories/positive air pressure device accessories – 양압기부속품 [yahng-ahp-ghi-boo-sok-poom]
• CPAP mask – 양압기 마스크 [yahng-aph-ghi-mah-seu-keu]
• CPAP tube – 양압기 튜브 [yanhg-ahp-ghi tyoo-beu]
• Hospital – 병원 [byuhng-wuhn]
• Clinic – 의원 [eu-ee-wuhn]
• Sleep Center – 수면센터 [soo-myuhn-sehn-tuh]
• Sleep apnea – 수면 무호흡증 [soo-myuhn moo-ho-heub-jeung]
• Rental – 대여 [dae-yuh]
• Polysomnography – 수면다원검사 [soo-myuhn-dah-wuhn-guhm-sah]

Possible Challenges of Acquiring a CPAP Device

Lanuage barriers, cultural barriers, and financial barriers may pose challenges to the acquisition of a CPAP device. However, don’t let these challenges stop you from advocating for your needs. Below are some resources that may help you navigate such challenges.

Language Barrier

As many of us have experienced, language barriers can be a big challenge when accessing healthcare in a foreign country. Here are a few free tools and resources you can use to overcome the language barrier in your search for a CPAP device:

Interpretation Resources

• BBB Korea
• 1330 Travel Hotline – *for translation assistance needing during emergency (119) calls

Translator Apps

• Papago
• Google Translate

Other Options

• Bring a trusted Korean friend or coworker to help with translation

Cultural Barrier

In addition to language barriers, you may experience cultural challenges as you go through the process of acquiring a CPAP device. Korea’s medical system may differ from your home country’s. Understanding that it may take time and extra steps to get a CPAP device in Korea may help prepare you, emotionally, for the process. The “How to Improve Your Comfort Level in South Korea” blog post has some tips about understanding and managing culture shock while living and accessing healthcare in Korea.

Similarly to the U.S., South Korea requires a prescription for the purchase of a CPAP device. This means that you may need to visit a hospital or clinic to be diagnosed with a sleep disorder in Korea, even if you already have documentation from your home country showing that you have already been diagnosed, before you can purchase a CPAP device.

Visiting a hospital/clinic in Korea can be daunting. A couple of ways that may alleviate some of the cultural stress in visiting a Korean hospital/clinic include:

• Researching hospitals/clinics that work with the international population. Many larger hospitals in Korea, such as St. Marys Hospital in Pyeongtaek, have an international support center.
• Asking a Korean friend to go to your appointment with you. Having a friend who can interpret not only language but cultural expectations can help prepare you for your hospital visit.

Financial Barriers

Depending on whether you are enrolled in the NHIS or if you use international insurance, CPAP device pricing may vary.

CPAP Device Access for NHIS Enrolled Individuals in Korea

If you are enrolled in NHIS, your medical visits and your CPAP device may be covered. Skip to the “Acquiring a CPAP device for Those with Korean National Health Insurance” section below for more information on how to gain access to a CPAP device using NHIS.

CPAP Device Access for Non-NHIS Enrolled Individuals in Korea

For those NOT enrolled in NHIS, you may need to pay high out-of-pocket costs for a CPAP device. Preparing yourself financially, by setting aside a savings fund for a CPAP device could help. CPAP device pricing can range anywhere from 1,000,000 KRW to 1,500,000 KRW if not covered by NHIS.

It may still be possible to rent and buy a CPAP device with accessories for lower price points. However, ability to rent will vary depending on the distributing company, and some distributing companies may require you to have NHIS.

You can refer to the NHIS list of CPAP distributors*** to find the closest clinic to you.

***Although the NHIS website allows you to switch languages, information on CPAP distribution centers is only available on the Korean version of the NHIS website. Many other Korean websites function similarly to the NHIS where their English and Korean translated sites provide different information. This can be frustrating when searching for much needed resources. However, it is common practice on sites with multiple language functions because building out websites in multiple languages is a complex process, the “other language” versions of sites often only provide the most commonly used resources.

To navigate the Korean version of the NHIS website, use the Google translate plug-in or take screenshots using Papago to find the distribution center that is nearest to you.

If navigating the Korean website using Google translate and Papago seems too stressful, you can also call the NHIS hotline and speak with a represenative on their English line to learn about what you qualify for and how to access CPAP device rentals and purchases.

NHIS Hotline⁵

0338112000

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

This phone number takes you to an NHIS agent who can answer any and all questions you have about the Korean national health insurance including cost and coverage. English, Russian, Chinese and other language services are available. Note: It may be difficult for a call to go through during the lunch hour (12pm-1pm)

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

CPAP Device Access for International Insurance Enrolled Individuals in Korea

If you have international insurance, check with your insurance provider to see if a CPAP device is reimburseable under their policy. While you may still need to pay out-of-pocket cost in the interim, a reimbursement could help allievate financial challenges involved with purchasing a CPAP device outright without insurance support at all.

Acquiring a CPAP Device for Those with Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS)

The NHIS may cover CPAP rentals, devices, and accessories as seen in this NHIS policy (The policy listed for CPAP rentals is listed in Korean. You may need Google translate or Papago on hand for translation).

In order to apply your NHIS benefits to your CPAP device purchase, you must visit a Korean clinic/hospital to receive a certification diagnosing you with a sleep disorder that requires a CPAP device. The NHIS doesn’t accept diagnoses or prescriptions from outside of Korea because Korea has a specific registration process for CPAP access. Nevertheless, having an existing prescription and diagnosis to bring to a Korean clinic/hospital could provide a smoother transition.

Specialists covered by NHIS

Specialists who can help with the registration process are those who meet the eligibility criteria for conducting a polysomnography (수면다원검사). A polysomnography is a test that confirms whether you have sleep apnea or another sleep-related breathing disorder. Specialists in the following areas could potentially be eligible for conducting a polysomnography:

Please note that Family medicine, Internal medicine, and other primary care concepts are not as common in Korea and may not have a direct translation. Please utilize the Korean terms below to conduct a Naver Maps or Kakao Maps search for locations near you. Additionally, calling the medical center prior to your visit to make sure they offer polysomnographies is strongly recommended. You can use 1330 to help with translating your call.

• Family medicine/Internal medicine – 내과 [nae-gwah]
• Sleep Clinic – 수면과 [soo-myuhn-gwah]
• Neurology – 신경과 [shin-gyuhng-gwa]
• For specific clinics, please visit this website (Please note this website is in Korean and will require Google translate or Papago)

If you meet the criteria, the specialist will issue a registration application after confirming your diagnosis. Such an application or certification acts as a proof of coverage for CPAP devices and related accessories. The NHIS website provides a list of online and physical companies that distribute CPAP machines (Please note this website is in Korean and will require Google translate or Papago) For additional information on insurance coverage, read the NHIS policy (Korean website) or call the English, Chinese, and Vietnamese consultant call center at 033-811-2000 (Overseas: 82-33-811-2001).

Finding a CPAP Distributor

In addition to the NHIS list of CPAP distributors, there are a few online methods of acquiring a CPAP machine.

One option is to use online shopping apps like Coupang, GMarket, and Danawa. To make purchases on sites like Coupang, you need to have both an alien registration card (ARC) and Korean banking account (or other way to make purchases like KakaoPay or Samsung Pay). Non-Korean bank accounts and credit cards may not be accepted on some Korean online shopping sites. Please be aware that the shopping sites often have limited English functions and may be primarily in Korean.

If you have access to these online shopping apps, you can copy and paste the terminology found in the beginning of this blog (Medical Terms to Know Section) into the search bar to find CPAP devices and other accessories.

GENERAL NOTE ABOUT ONLINE SHOPPING IN KOREA: When shopping online on sites like Coupang, GMarket, etc., searching terms in English may work. However, keep in mind that the search results may be limited. Often when you search for items on Korean sites using English, the site will mainly show you overseas results that may be more expensive or take longer to deliver. Searching using Korean terminology will bring up more options for potentially cheaper price points.

CPAP Device Pricing

CPAP Device Rentals vs Purchase

One option to acquire a CPAP device can be to rent a CPAP device per month. Rather than purchasing an entire device for 1,500,000 KRW (without NHIS), renting may provide more flexibility for both those who have NHIS and don’t have NHIS. Prices may vary depending on the distributing company, brand of CPAP machine, and type of CPAP machine you get. The NHIS standard price for a device rental stands at around:

• KRW 76,000 per month for CPAP
• KRW 89,000 per month for an APAP
• KRW 126,000 per month for a biPAP
• KRW 95,000 per mask (1 mask per year)

To purchase a CPAP machine, we suggest reaching out to specific distributors for their purchase prices. You can use BBB to help with translating your call.

The NHIS may cover up to 80% of the rental device or mask purchase fee if within the standard amount listed above. If the device rental or mask purchase exceeds the standard amount, the NHIS may cover an amount equivalent to 80% of the standard amount. However, we recommend checking with the CPAP company you decide to choose for more accurate pricing.

For those who do not have NHIS, renting may still be an available option. However, CPAP distributing companies may require NHIS for rental so it is recommended you check with the specific distributing company about their requirements.

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Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns.

Jaina

Jaina Lee is a University of Utah graduate student studying public health. She graduated with her Bachelor’s in Anthropology and Health, Society, and Policy in 2022.

Jaina is a Korean-American, born and raised in Utah.

The post Where to Get a CPAP Device in Korea appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Living in South Korea and needing a mammogram? Learn more about taking care of breast health and finding clinics in the following blog post. The following article contains actionable support for finding resources across Korea.

Listen to the BlogCast

Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul.

About Breast Cancer

Let’s start with the basics about breast cancer. Breast cancer, while prevalent worldwide, has a hopeful side in early detection. In 2020, female breast cancer overtook lung cancer as the top diagnosed cancer. For those of us living in South Korea, there’s encouraging news: from 2015 to 2019, Korea reported an impressive 93.6% 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer patients. Mammograms may play a vital role in these positive outcomes as the primary screening tool. And while it’s less common, it’s crucial to remember that men, too, can be diagnosed with breast cancer. We encourage you to keep reading if you’re hoping to get a Mammogram in Korea done soon!

Types of Breast Cancer Screenings

Please note that breast cancer screening recommendations in Korea may differ from those in other countries. For example, some physicians in Korea may recommend doing a mammogram and breast ultrasound. This is because Korean women have been found to have denser breast tissue, which can make detecting breast cancer harder with just a mammogram. Below are some descriptions of different types of screening procedures:

• Mammogram – an x-Ray that detects microcalcifications (indicators of early breast cancer)

• Breast Ultrasound – test that detects malignant tumors that are less than 1cm that are difficult to see on mammograms

• Breast Biopsy – sometimes done if a lesion is found on mammography or breast ultrasound. Used to rule out breast cancer

• Breast MRI – sometimes done if a lesion is found on mammography or breast ultrasound. Used to rule out breast cancer, but often more expensive

If you are going in for a screening in Korea, your health provider may do a mammogram, breast ultrasound, or a combination of the two. We recommend discussing with your healthcare provider about the best option for you. For this article, we will focus on mammograms as they are considered the primary screening option for breast cancer.

Why Should I Get a Mammogram in Korea?

Mammograms are an X-ray of the breast and are one of the preferred ways to detect breast cancer early. Mammograms are able to detect microcalcifications, which are calcium deposits. Mammary microcalcifications, while not a sure sign of breast cancer, can be a marker for breast cancer. Mammograms may be able to detect these small abnormalities, even before you can feel them with your own hands. Detecting breast cancer early can allow you to get ahead on treatment and may increase your chances of survivability.

If you’re hesitant to get a mammogram, we encourage you to read on! As an expat living in Korea, it’s important to keep up with routine screenings. If you follow the steps of this guide, you may find that getting a mammogram in Korea isn’t as complex of a process as you may think it is! As we will cover later, if you’re covered by the NHIS, getting a mammogram can also be quite affordable. We’ve also outlined what you can expect during your appointment so you can get an idea of what the process looks like.

When Should I Get a Mammogram in Korea?

According to the Korean Breast Cancer Society, it is recommended that women between the ages of 40-69 get screened for breast cancer every two years. However, this data is based on the Korean epidemiologic characteristics and recommendations may differ depending on the country you come from. For example, the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends screenings for women 40-74 years old every two years.

Individual risk factors like genetics for the BRCA gene mutation may increase your chances of breast cancer. In these cases, earlier breast cancer screenings may be recommended. However, this should be discussed with a doctor as the NHIS may not cover screenings before 40 years old. (verified with NHIS English line).

Mammogram Coverage in Korea

Mammogram coverage is dependent on your birth year and age. Even birth years (i.e. 1974) can get free screenings on an even year (i.e. 2022), while odd birth years (i.e. 1975) are only eligible to get free screenings on odd years (i.e. 2023). In addition, you must be over the age of 40 to qualify (verified with NHIS English services line). In the case of individual risk (i.e. family history, genetics) we suggest calling a clinic ahead of time.

Please be aware that for individuals who identify as male, coverage is a bit more ambiguous and will require you to call the clinic ahead of time for coverage details. In the case a mammogram is covered, the NHIS coverage guidelines are the same for both men and women.

NHIS Eligible Coverage

Depending on your visa type, if you have been living in Korea for longer than 6 months, you are likely enrolled in Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). NHIS enrollment is compulsory for many foreigners and Korean nationals after living in-country for 6 months. However, enrollment does not apply to those living in Korea under SOFA status (US military and dependents). To learn more about your NHIS eligibility please refer to the NHIS eligibility guide or call the English NHIS Line at 033-811-2000.

NHIS Hotline⁵

0338112000

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

This phone number takes you to an NHIS agent who can answer any and all questions you have about the Korean national health insurance including cost and coverage. English, Russian, Chinese and other language services are available. Note: It may be difficult for a call to go through during the lunch hour (12pm-1pm)

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Through NHIS, services are typically covered up to 90% however fees depend on the hospital or clinic you visit. Local clinics and hospitals are usually cheaper than university hospitals. It is important to call ahead of time to discuss coverage.

International Insurance Coverage (Non-NHIS)

For those who have international insurance or do not have NHIS, you may need to discuss directly with your insurance company to see which services are covered. Then, you may need to call the clinic/hospital you plan on visiting for pricing.

How do I get a Mammogram in Korea?

You can look for breast cancer screening services one of two ways.

Option 1: Use Naver or Kakao Maps to find locations

The first way is by searching for mammogram services through Naver Maps and KakaoMap. To find a clinic or hospital that offers breast cancer screening services, copy and paste “산부인과,” “산부의원” (Gynecological Clinic) or “유방암 검사” (Breast Cancer Screening) into Naver Maps or KakaoMap. Click here for information on how to use Naver Maps. Papago or other translation services may be needed to search and translate Korean terms.

Medical Terms to Know

The following medical terms may be helpful in finding the closest clinic or hospital that offer breast cancer screenings like mammograms. Copy and paste the following terms into Naver or Kakao maps to find locations near you:

• Breast – 유방 [yoo-bahng]
• Breast Cancer – 유방암 [yoo-bahng-ahm]
• Breast Cancer Screening – 유방암 검사 [yoo-bahng-ahm-geom-sah]
• Mammography – 유방촬영 검사 [yoo-bahng-cheol-yeong geom-sah]
• Hospital – 병원 [byeong-weon]
• Gynecological Clinic – 산부인과 / 산부의원 [sahn-boo-een-gwah / sahn-boo-ui-weon]

Option 2: Use the NHIS Website to Find Locations

The second option requires you to visit the NHIS website and use their search tool.

There may be some challenges involved with navigating the NHIS website to access the hospitals/clinics search tool. However, there may be some workarounds for these challenges.

Challenges of Navigating the NHIS Website

Although an English (Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese) version of the NHIS website exists, the English site may not have ALL of the NHIS services and tools available. The English (and other language) NHIS website mainly provides information specific to or most frequently used by foreign residents. The Korean version of the site includes all information that may or may not be relevant to the foreign population.

The NHIS website continues to update its database so this may change in the future. Currently, for mammograms, utilizing Google Translate on the Korean version of the NHIS website may provide more detailed information.

Navigating the NHIS website may require you to know some Korean or know how to navigate Korean websites using Google Translate. Google Translate doesn’t perfectly translate the entire website. For example, if you come across drop-down options, the drop-down list may not auto-translate. Having Papago on hand can help with such challenges.

Navigating the Korean version of the NHIS website

Now let’s dive into how to find clinics on the Korean site using Google Translate.

For searching hospitals and clinics that do mammograms, you will want to visit the following link: NHIS Hospitals and Clinics Search Tool.

Step 1: Activate Google Translate

When you enter the above webpage, make sure you are on the Korean version of the website. Then, at the top right of the Google search bar, click the Google Translate icon to auto-translate the page into your language of choice. If you don’t see this icon, you may need to add the extension to your browser.

Step 2: Choose your province (“do”) and city (“si”)

As shown in the image below, when selecting your “do” (or province), the populated answers will be in English. However, the City/County aka the “si” and Eup/Myeon/Dong will all be in Korean. You may need to use Papago to translate the City/County.

Step 3 (Optional): Choose your neighborhood (eup/myeon/dong)

If you would like to narrow down your search location to your specific neighborhood, you can choose your eup/myeon/dong to do so. However, keep in mind that rural areas of Korea may have a limited number of hospitals and clinics, especially ones with international help centers. Conducting a broader search will provide you with a larger list of options.

Step 4: Select the type of screening

For mammogram screenings, you will want to check the “breast cancer” box.

Step 5: Click Search

Click the red search button to view the results.

The results page will appear similarly to the image below. The search results may show a lot of information that looks unfamiliarly formatted. The image below details what each component of the search results reflects. You can click on the “Detail” button to learn more about the hospital/clinic.

IMPORTANT NOTE

It’s important to note that not all hospitals will have an international help desk or English-speaking services. We encourage you to use translation services like BBB Korea or Papago at your visit!

If you live in the Pyeongtaek or Seoul area, the limited list of hospitals below offers English support. More hospitals with English support may exist across the country, but you may need to call ahead to confirm.

Recommended Mammogram Locations

The following mammogram locations have been recommended by international residents living in South Korea in various foreigner support groups:

Daerim St Marys Hospital Seoul⁰

028299000

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

서울 영긍포구 시흥대로 657

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Seoul Univ Medical Center⁰

1588-5700

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Good Morning Hospital^4.5

031-5182-7700

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 중앙로 338

ER AVAILABLE. Approved for direct billing with Tricare. This hospital deals with many foreigners and has a foreigner help desk Mon - Fri. Parking garage on site.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

St. Marys General Hospital⁵

031-1800-8800

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 평택로 284

Pro tip: When you call Press 0 and ask for the International Clinic. Well prepared to handle foreign patients. They follow US privacy standards. ER AVAILABLE. FOR USFK: Approved for direct billing with TRICARE FOR WOMEN: Excellent Womens Clinic with female doctors. Mon - Fri from 9AM - 5:30PM and 7PM - 8PM as well as weekends and holidays 9AM - 2:30PM. FOR TEACHERS: The best place to get your annual medical check. (As of 2021) 70,000 won, ID, and 3 passport photos needed. Takes 7 days to get results. Open on Saturdays.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

What to Expect During a Mammogram in Korea

You may have heard that mammograms can be painful which may have delayed you from seeking out mammogram services. Couple that with being in a foreign country, you may have put off getting screened altogether. We hope that by explaining what you can expect during a mammogram visit in Korea through a step-by-step process, we can bring some transparency so that you are prepared for what is to come!

Step 1: Make an Appointment

Once you have found a clinic you’re comfortable with and have checked your coverage (refer to How do I get a Mammogram and Mammogram Coverage above), call to make an appointment. You may be able to find a clinic or hospital that offers English services, but in case you don’t we suggest utilizing BBB Korea for free translation help.

Step 2: Arrive at the Clinic

When visiting a clinic or hospital that may or may not have English-speaking services, make sure to arrive prepared. Having Papago or the BBB Korea translation service on hand while at your appointment may help ease any language challenges you may face.

The clinic or hospital will likely ask for your ID (i.e. Alien/Foreign Registration Card) when you first arrive. You will likely meet with a doctor to assess your condition before going in to complete your mammography. Once you are called in to begin the mammography, you may be asked to change into a gown. Remove any accessories and undergarments that may obstruct view of the breast area.

Step 3: Getting the Mammogram

You will be guided to step up to the mammogram machine as depicted below. The mammography is performed by pressing each breast with a plastic plate to flatten it. The whole exam may take about 5 minutes or more. Mammograms are quite uncomfortable for most individuals. However, the pain of flattening each breast tends to lasts only a few seconds. Then you’re done!

Notification of results will vary by clinic and hospital. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider on how to best receive your results.

Conclusion

We hope that by offering tips on how to set up a mammography appointment and walking through the steps of a breast cancer screening appointment you will feel more confident in navigating the process. Remember, the hardest part is getting started! Don’t delay your essential screenings and go get your breast cancer screening today!

Follow SOS Public Health For More Resources

Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns.

Jaina

Jaina Lee is a University of Utah graduate student studying public health. She graduated with her Bachelor’s in Anthropology and Health, Society, and Policy in 2022.

Jaina is a Korean-American, born and raised in Utah.

The post Mammograms in Korea appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.