Debate grows over broadening of state insurance coverage for drug rehabilitation

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The government's decision to extend health insurance coverage for rehabilitation expenses of individuals who have an addiction to illegal drugs has provoked a heated debate in online communities. The decision was made based on the belief that drug addiction is an illness that can be cured, but critics raise questions over the appropriateness of the treatment costs for "criminals" to be covered by state insurance.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare made the decision on Nov. 28, seeking to address the increasing concern of drug addiction and reshape the perception of drug dependence as a treatable medical condition. The new policy is slated to take effect within the first half of next year.

Until now, national health insurance coverage has been limited to those who received court orders for treatment or probation. However, recognizing the increasing prevalence of drug addiction, the ministry decided to broaden the scope to include those subject to "treatment protection.”

People under treatment protection include those released from prison after being convicted of illegal drug use and teenage drug addicts. The number of these people stood at about 420 as of last year.

For treatments covered by national health insurance, patients usually pay about 30 percent of the total costs, while the National Health Insurance Service covers the remaining 70 percent.

Previously, those undergoing treatment for drug addiction had to bear the entire cost of rehabilitation, as health insurance did not apply to their expenses. However, the high costs associated with inpatient care and other forms of treatment have hindered their ability to actively pursue rehabilitation.

Those who support the government's decision to give health insurance coverage to more drug addicts said it will be helpful for society in the long term as active treatment could reduce repeated drug crimes.

However, objectors argue that the government should not bear the majority of the financial burden for treating individuals involved in criminal activities.

Social media platforms have become a battleground for opposing views, with comments such as: "Only hardworking people shoulder the burden," "Drug addicts should face consequences," "Help those with rare diseases and low-income individuals first," and "Why should the entire nation share the burden of treatment for those who have committed illegal acts?"

One internet user expressed concerns about potential misuse, stating, "Receiving social benefits after indulging in drugs for pleasure is unacceptable. Drug suppliers will only profit from this."

On the flip side, supporters argue that the opposition's perspective is short-sighted. They emphasize that applying health insurance to drug addiction treatment can contribute positively to society, enabling quicker and more effective interventions.

The government's decision to cover the costs of drug addiction treatment is based on the understanding that a solely enforcement-focused approach makes it challenging to eradicate drug abuse.

The recidivism rate for individuals returning to drugs stood at 36 percent in 2021, surpassing that of other crimes by about 1.5 times, according to data tallied by the Supreme Prosecutors' Office.

"Despite past challenges due to limited budgets, we aim to enhance treatment opportunities by expanding health insurance coverage and providing budgetary support for personal burdens," a health ministry official said.

"We plan to improve service quality, alleviate medical professionals' reluctance through appropriate compensation and ensure timely payment and fee improvements for healthcare institutions."