22-Jun-15 The spread of MERS in Korea is arousing controversy over telemedicine. Medical exams and prescriptions by phone are currently illegal, and some healthcare organizations are claiming that the government illegally allowed the temporarily closed Samsung Medical Center to prescribe via telemedicine, despite the lack of proof of safety and effectiveness. [image: Business Korea]

08-Jun-15 Samsung has partnered with China-based payor Ping An Insurance to create a digital health platform. The companies will combine Ping An's health services with Samsung's digital health offerings, including its heart rate sensing smartphones and smartwatches, and its S Health app. [image: MobiHealthNews]

29-May-15 SThe number of medical tourists visiting Korea grew at 35% on average annually since 2009, and is expected to surpass 1 million soon. 267,000 foreign patients spent USD504 mn in 2014, and 30,000 jobs were created. To maintain this growth, Korea needs a medical infrastructure to compete with those of other destinations such as Thailand and Singapore. [image: Business Korea]

22-May-15 Samsung has unveiled a new version of its S Health app, capable of measuring heart rate and oxygen saturation. An oxygen saturation-measuring device used to be classified as a medical device. Jointly created by US health insurance service company Cigna, the fitness app provides a customized health management system to users. [image: Business Korea]

20-May-15 Korean medical equipment makers have been increasing their exports, though growth has slowed due to exchange rates. Samsung Medison sold USD260 million in 2014, 14% growth over 2013; Vatech, a dental imaging player, raised its global market share to 10%, ranking fifth; and dental implant maker Ostem is now the largest implant manufacturer in China. [image: Business Korea]