Shin Gye-yong, the mayor of Gwacheon in Gyeonggi Province, emphasized on August 11 that he aims to firmly establish an integrated care system in the region to ensure that seniors and individuals with disabilities can enjoy a safe and comfortable life in their beloved homes.
To achieve this, Mayor Shin has established basic welfare teams in all districts and assigned dedicated nursing staff for integrated care.
On this day, he announced the completion of the establishment of basic customized welfare teams at all district administrative welfare centers, along with the placement of social welfare team leaders and dedicated nursing staff to create a community-centered care system that addresses both welfare and health needs.
This restructuring focuses on providing the same level of welfare services across all districts, moving away from the previous area-based welfare system that centered on select districts.
Each district administrative welfare center now has a customized welfare team, with the social welfare team leader responsible for identifying welfare gaps, providing consultations, and connecting residents with welfare resources.
Notably, dedicated nursing staff have been assigned to focus on seniors aged 65 and older and individuals with severe disabilities.
These nursing staff will visit households to assess health conditions and, if necessary, coordinate with health centers and local medical institutions to ensure seamless access to medical and welfare services.
This initiative is part of a community-based welfare policy aimed at supporting residents in maintaining a healthy and stable life in familiar surroundings.
Local residents have responded positively to the changes.
One citizen remarked, "When welfare or health issues arise, it can be difficult to know where to seek help. If the district can provide direct consultations and connect us to necessary services, it would be much more reassuring."
Another resident expressed, "As we age, support that looks after not just health but also daily life becomes crucial. I hope policies that help seniors continue living in their homes and communities expand further."
Meanwhile, Mayor Shin Gye-yong stated, "Integrated care goes beyond simple welfare services; it is about providing a comprehensive administrative approach that takes responsibility for citizens' lives until the end."
He added, "We will continue to strengthen Gwacheon's intricate care system so that seniors and individuals with disabilities can live healthily and safely in their familiar neighborhoods and homes."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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