Pediatric Confirmed Cases to Soon Begin Outpatient Treatment at Local Clinics

System Established for Receiving Medical Treatment in the Neighborhood

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki Ha-young]A system where local pediatric clinics provide in-person care for pediatric COVID-19 confirmed cases instead of phone consultations will soon begin.

Park Hyang, head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) quarantine task force, stated at the regular briefing on the 28th, "We acknowledge the limitations of non-face-to-face treatment for pediatric patients," adding, "Discussions were held yesterday focusing on pediatric hospitals and clinics with available beds, and starting today, we will recruit medical institutions that can participate in outpatient care."

He added, "We will create a system where, after being confirmed with Omicron and developing a fever or other symptoms, patients can receive treatment at a nearby local clinic."

As pediatric and adolescent confirmed cases increased, the government designated regional base pediatric medical institutions and expanded specialized pediatric emergency medical centers. However, following a series of deaths among children under 10 undergoing home treatment, additional measures have been taken.

The government indicated on the same day that "a system where only specific hospitals treat COVID-19 cannot handle the epidemic," suggesting plans to expand outpatient care for confirmed cases.

Park said, "A system that exclusively treats COVID-19 within a limited medical framework cannot maintain continuity," and added, "Outpatient care, including pediatric treatment, is expected to expand further." He also urged, "Medical staff should acknowledge the need to respond to COVID-19 through outpatient care, and the public must accept this change."

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