Having a Baby in Korea - Pre-natal Care Discounts    

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Korea offers a health care discount program for pregnant women - expats included. To qualify, however, you must be enrolled in the National Health Insurance system. The financial assistance card  (Goeunmom card - aka Go Mom card) can be used during pre-natal checkups and other medical treatment related to the pregnancy. It entitles you to a maximum subsidy of KRW60,000 per checkup per day  and up to a total sum of KRW400,000*. (*as of 01 April 2012, the total will be W500,000).

For example, if your checkup costs KRW80,000, you will only need to pay KRW20,000 out of pocket  (KRW80,000 – KRW60,000 (subsidy)) and your total credit limit will be reduced to KRW340,000.

There's also a credit card that gets you the same discount on check-up and other pre-natal treatments but that also earns you department store and other discounts (around 5%). This one may be harder for foreign nationals to get, however.

How to get the Go Mom card?
If you are currently enrolled in the National Health Insurance system and are pregnant,  request the following document from your doctor “건강보험 출산 전 진료비 지원신청 및 임신확인서 (geongangboheom chulsan jeon jinlyobi jiwonsincheong mich imsinhwag-inseo)”, which is an application form for financial support during pregnancy and childbirth. The form will include your details and due date, and also the doctor’s signature. (Note that all clinics, including the international clinics and OB/GYN specialists are aware of this form and of the discount program).

Once you obtained the application form, visit your nearest Shinhan or Kookmin (KB) bank*, NHIC (National Health Insurance office or Post office and apply for the Goeunmom card. You can either pick-up your card there (3-5 days later) or get it delivered to your address (1-2 weeks later).
*If you go to Shinhan or KB for your card, bring your bankbook with you if you already have an account.

Info: If you need further information, call NHIC at 1577-1000 or 02-390-2000 (English Helpline).

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