South Korea to Launch Real-Time Query System for CT and MRI Records in December to Reduce Duplicate Tests for Patients Transferring Hospitals

The Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) of South Korea announced on August 10 that it has established the "Appropriate Medical Utilization Review Committee" and, at its first meeting, included computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations in the review scope of the real-time medical utilization management program.

According to the plan, the program will be managed through the "Medical Care Benefit Details Confirmation System" following approval by the Minister of Health and Welfare. The system, built pursuant to Article 41-6 of the revised National Health Insurance Act, is expected to officially operate starting December 24.

Once the system is in place, medical personnel will be able to query in real time the timing and relevant records of patients' CT and MRI examinations at other medical institutions before the patients undergo examinations, thereby reducing unnecessary duplicate tests when patients transfer to another hospital or change medical institutions.

At the same time, if medical personnel determine that existing imaging data are insufficient and re-imaging is indeed necessary, they may still arrange follow-up examinations without restriction.

An official from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service stated that the AI-based system will enable real-time confirmation of patients' medical utilization records, fostering a more appropriate medical treatment environment and reducing unnecessary examinations and procedures.

It was noted that the committee consists of 15 members, including representatives from the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, civic groups, and healthcare experts. Going forward, the committee will continue to screen items that may involve excessive medical utilization or affect patient safety and review whether they should be included in the scope of real-time management.