Korea Expands ‘Essential Doctor’ Pilot, Seeks More Regions

The Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare has announced an open call for additional local governments to participate in its 2026 Contract-based Regional Essential Doctor System Pilot Project. The initiative aims to address the shortage of medical professionals in underserved areas across the country by securing essential doctors through contractual agreements.

This expansion comes following the allocation of a supplementary budget for 2026, enabling the Ministry to broaden the scope of this vital healthcare program. The “Contract-based Regional Essential Doctor System” is designed to ensure equitable access to medical services, particularly in rural or less populated regions, by providing incentives and stable working conditions for doctors committed to practicing in these areas for a set period.

Local governments are encouraged to actively apply to become a part of this pilot project. Participation offers an opportunity for municipalities to enhance their local healthcare infrastructure and provide critical medical services to their residents who might otherwise face difficulties accessing specialized care.

The application period for local governments seeking to join the program runs from May 22, 2026, to June 11, 2026. Detailed guidelines and application forms are available through the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s official website and the attached public announcement documents, which contain comprehensive information for prospective participating regions.

By expanding the pilot program, the government reiterates its commitment to strengthening public health services and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their location, have access to necessary medical care. This proactive measure is part of broader efforts to resolve regional healthcare disparities and build a more resilient national health system.

Source: 보건복지부 — Original Article (Korean)