Seoul covers up to 500,000 won in medical costs for pregnant women 35 and older — 96% satisfied

Nearly all recipients of Seoul's medical cost support program for pregnant women aged 35 and older said the benefit eased their financial burden and helped them manage their health, according to a city survey.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government surveyed 3,267 users of the program this year and found that 96.3 percent said it reduced their medical expenses, the city announced Sunday. Another 96.5 percent said it helped them take a more proactive approach to health care, including seeking more consultations and tests.

Some 96.3 percent said the program helped with their pregnancy and childbirth overall, with 73.7 percent of those saying it was "very helpful." An additional 89.7 percent expressed satisfaction with the guidance provided at public health centers and the application process.

However, some users called for a simpler application process. While 89.7 percent were satisfied with the public health center guidance and application procedures, some recipients asked the city to streamline document submission and improve updates on the status of subsidy payments.

Since July 2024, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has provided up to 500,000 won ($362) per pregnancy to cover outpatient consultation and testing costs incurred from the date of confirmed pregnancy through delivery, available to all pregnant women aged 35 and older living in Seoul regardless of income.

Demand for the program has grown alongside a rising share of mothers aged 35 and older. According to a population trends survey by the Ministry of Statistics, the proportion of mothers in that age group in Seoul climbed from 39.7 percent in 2020 to 45.8 percent last year.

Births in Seoul also rose 18.7 percent in the first half of this year compared with the same period last year, reaching 26,924. The city expects about 28,000 people to apply for the program this year and has secured about 4.1 billion won in supplementary budget funds to meet the demand.

The city also plans to improve the application process by incorporating survey feedback, including simplifying document submission requirements and strengthening communication on payment progress.

"We confirmed that the medical cost support not only relieves financial pressure but also encourages recipients to actively seek the consultations and tests they need," said Jo Yeong-chang, director of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Bureau of Public Health.