Measures for Increasing Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation on Healthcare and Medicine

Abstract

This study proposes a strategy for rebuilding the near-collapse North Korean health system toward ensuring stable availability of medical resources for North Koreans. The strategy involves rebuilding the facilities, enhancing the capabilities of health workers, reinforcing the health information system, strengthening the health policymaking capability, and supporting health governance and financing. It also reviews the potential risk factors that may emerge in the integration of the two health and medical systems, and explores solutions. New forms of exchange and cooperation on health are in order in this day and age of new peace. We need to start envisioning strategies for the long-term inter-Korean integration of health systems based on the principles of mutual respect and pragmatism.