Korean national dementia plans: from 1st to 3rd

ABSTRACT

Since dementia imposes a major burden on society, it has become an urgent and important health issue in countries across the world. The Korean government declared a ‘war against dementia’ and announced the first national dementia plan in 2008. Dementia counseling centers were implemented at all community health centers, and an early detection program and medical expense support services were initiated to encourage the early diagnosis of dementia. In 2012, the Dementia Management Act was enacted and the second national dementia plan was announced. The second national plan established basic infrastructure, such as a dementia management system at the national, regional, and municipal levels. The previous support system was extended and strengthened by incorporating long-term care services, family support, and early diagnosis and treatment support. The third national plan was designed to effectively reduce the burden of dementia by establishing a user-based, continuous support system with wider community coverage. The plan used the key objectives of dementia policy suggested by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development as a framework, and introduced evidence-based planning and quantification of outcomes to promote maximal effectiveness. Although this policy is still in effect and it is difficult to evaluate its final results, some areas require supplementation. A need to minimize ‘false positive’ dementia has emerged. Postdiagnostic support and specialized treatment for the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are insufficient. Coordination between the health and welfare systems should be improved, and economic support for dementia patients and families should be strengthened.