Korea has already reached one of the most rapid aging society in the world. Thus, Korea is confronting with a number of social and economic problems which should be solved as early as possible.
As a measure to improve the situation, the Korean government adopted the Long-term Care Insurance for the Elderly in July 2008. While a number of studies have shown that the insurance system has achieved a considerable success, the system needs to be analyzed systematically. By using the model of social welfare policy dimensions devised by Gilbert and Specht, this study analyzed the insurance system in terms of allocations, provisions, social service delivery system and finance dimensions.
Major findings of this study are summarized as follows:
First, in terms of the allocation system, it was found that the criteria of selecting the client are more or less vague. Thus this study suggests the improvement of disability classification system, so that more disabled elderly could be included in insurance system.
Second, in terms of the provision system, it was found that professional services were inadequate to meet the needs of aged clients. Thus this study suggests the need to provide families with subsidy for home care activities.
Third, in terms of social service delivery system, it was found that cooperative relationship between local governments and the health insurance management corporation needs to be improved, so that integrated services for the clients could be provided.
Fourth, in terms of finance system, it was found that the financial support from government was limited. Thus the system should be improved to reduce the financial burden of clients and their families having limited income.