Examining the Pilot Program for Non-Medical Healthcaer Services Certification and the Healthcare Privatization Debate: A Public Service Provision Lens

In June 2022, the Ministry of Health and Welfare introduced a pilot program for the certification of non-medical health management services. This initiative, however, faced opposition due to concerns about potential healthcare privatization. This study aimed to examine whether the certification pilot program promotes healthcare privatization by utilizing a classification framework for public service provision. Contrary to initial concerns, it appears that the government sought to ensure publicness by acting as an intermediary between service beneficiaries and private providers, thereby incorporating the efficiency and accessibility of the private sector into the system. To address the potential exacerbation of health inequalities through technological monopolies and large-scale capital investment, continuous discussion and consensus among various social stakeholders surrounding this system will be necessary.