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World Bank designates Korea as 'medical evacuation destination'
By Lee Kyung-min
By Lee Kyung-min
The World Bank has designated Korea as a medical evacuation destination, recognizing the country's outstanding treatment and containment efforts involving the COVID-19 pandemic, the government said Tuesday.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance said the global institution sought Korea's knowledge and experience in dealing with the coronavirus, suggesting that case studies be conducted to help other countries that are still struggling to contain the virus.
The bank also recommended that a group of consultants be stationed in Songdo, Incheon, to boost cooperation in the healthcare sector, with specifics to be finalized soon.
In a letter sent to the ministry from World Bank Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific Victoria Kwakwa and World Bank Vice President for Human Development Annette Dixon overseeing the Global Practices for education and health among others, they said they were “impressed” and that other countries could learn from Korea's experience.
The designation will allow World Bank staff and some registered dependents on bank duty stationed in 29 Asia-Pacific countries to receive treatment in Korea.
Eligible for treatment are those in acute, severe and life-threatening conditions or with injuries requiring immediate medical treatment that is not available locally. The destination for evacuation is usually the closest country in which appropriate care can be rendered, according to the World Bank directive on health programs and services.
This is the latest example of global recognition earned following a series of measures undertaken in response to the outbreak.
The ministry-written booklet called “Tackling COVID-19,” received a wave of positive reviews from around the world. The 120-page booklet has been shared among many international organizations.
In the second 90-page booklet released April 15 entitled “Flattening the curve on COVID-19,” the ministry detailed how technology was utilized to help contain the virus.
The third 130-page booklet released May 3, entitled “Testing Time for Resilience,” outlined government policies on the telecommunication-mediated training of medical professionals, the stable supply of personal protective equipment and ways to help virus-hit businesses with overseas operations.
The ministry said it will bolster cooperation with other countries to help identify a growth opportunity from a business standpoint, also contributing to the development of countries.
“We are glad that advanced local medical treatment was recognized by the international community. The suggestions will help Korea lay the groundwork for local medical treatment service providers in expanding presence overseas,” a ministry official said.