Gangbuk-gu Operates 'Dolbom SOS Center' in Collaboration with Public and Private Sectors

Starting with Seniors (65+), Disabled, and Middle-aged Households (50+)... Full Expansion to All Residents by July Next Year... Hub for Regional Integrated Care System

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] Gangbuk-gu (Mayor Park Gyeom-su) is operating a 'Care SOS Center' where public and private sectors work together to quickly respond to the needs of residents requiring urgent care.

They have established a foundation for a one-stop customized window that swiftly connects local resources such as social enterprises, independent living centers, and public and private medical institutions according to care demands.

From reception to post-case management, the process is carried out continuously without interruption.

Before providing universal care services to all residents starting July next year, the district will conduct a pilot project from this month. The target groups are vulnerable populations such as seniors aged 65 and over, people with disabilities, and middle-aged households aged 50 and above.

Services can be used if independent daily living is difficult or if there are no family members to assist. Upon application to the center, a care manager visits within 72 hours to establish a customized plan based on the user's needs and connects them with services provided by local care institutions.

Previously, the district formed a promotion T/F team and expanded personnel including managers (public officials) and fixed-term workers. The number of service providers has also increased to 158, diversifying the local network collaboration system.

The services provided include ▲ residential convenience (simple repairs, cleaning, disinfection) ▲ temporary home care (home visits and assistance) ▲ meal and health support (basic dietary maintenance, medical management, etc.) ▲ information counseling services. Starting July next year, the services will expand to eight categories, including short-term facilities, accompaniment support, and welfare checks.

Fees vary depending on income level and service type. Cost support targets include basic livelihood security recipients, lower-income groups, households with income below 85% of the median, and temporarily up to 100% of the median income to minimize care gaps among vulnerable groups due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. Those exceeding the criteria can use care services at their own expense if urgent care is needed. However, information counseling is free of charge.

Gangbuk-gu Mayor Park Gyeom-su said, “The SOS Center is expected to serve as a gateway providing integrated health and welfare care with the community and public-private sectors united for households needing urgent care,” adding, “We will eliminate care blind spots and create a welfare safety net that all residents can enjoy.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.