Cheongdo-gun opens new public health center after six-year project

Cheongdo-gun in North Gyeongsang Province held an opening ceremony Monday for the new Cheongdo-gun Public Health Center in Hwayangeum, with about 300 residents and officials from related organizations in attendance.

The new building was developed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen the local public health system and deliver resident-centered medical services.

The project drew a total investment of 35.4 billion won ($26.4 million) over six years, yielding a facility with one below-ground floor, four above-ground floors and a total floor area of 7,442 square meters.

The center houses an infectious disease response center, an integrated health counseling center, a rehabilitation center for agricultural workers and a mental health and welfare center.

It also offers specialist outpatient services in pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology, along with amenities for residents including a health experience exhibition hall, health education spaces, a book cafe and community rooms.

With the opening, the Cheongdo-gun Public Health Center plans to move beyond its traditional treatment-focused role by expanding disease prevention and health management services, as well as life-cycle health management and community-linked services.

"Based on this new building, we will do our utmost to stay close to residents, look after them with care and provide real help when they need it," said Cheongdo-gun County Chief Park Kwon-hyeon.