Chungcheongbuk-do

- Event held at Cheongnamdae with residents, featuring a progress report and recognition of contributors - On Nov. 18, Chungcheongbuk-do announced that the Deferred Medical Payment Program, which introduced a groundbreaking medical welfare policy approach, has reached 1,000 beneficiaries. The province hosted an event to commemorate this milestone, highlighting the program’s excellence and strengthening its connection with the community. The event was attended by Kim Young-hwan, Governor of Chungcheongbuk-do, Lee Yang-seop, Provincial Assembly Chair, Lee Dong-woo, a Provincial Assembly member, and Lim Se-bin, Head of NH Bank’s Chungcheongbuk-do Headquarters. Various programs took place, including a progress report review, recognition of contributors, and the delivery of messages from residents. In particular, commemorative plaques and certificates of recognition were presented to key organizations driving innovation, including the Chungcheongbuk-do Headquarters of NH Bank, regional health centers, and local medical institutions. Representatives from these organizations expressed a renewed sense of responsibility and pledged to continue their efforts to promote the health and welfare of the local community. Furthermore, the Deferred Medical Payment Program received the Special Award for Excellent Practices in Regional Balanced Development from the Presidential Committee for Decentralization and Balanced Development on Nov. 7. The award was selected through a public vote, emphasizing its recognition as an outstanding policy chosen by the people. Governor Kim Young-hwan stated, “The successful establishment of this unprecedented system, both nationally and globally, in such a short period of time is a remarkable achievement. We will work towards expanding the program to include all residents and illnesses, ensuring support for the medically vulnerable who still face challenges in receiving treatment.” Since its introduction last year, the Deferred Medical Payment Program has extended its benefits to 810,000 residents―half of the provincial population―as of September this year. Beneficiary numbers have proliferated, surpassing 1,000 on Oct. 11, with approximately 1,110 individuals currently benefiting from the program.