Amid an unprecedented winter influenza (flu) outbreak, many patients visiting hospitals for flu confirmation tests are surprised by the high expenses. Flu tests fall under non-reimbursable medical services, meaning expenses vary by hospital.
According to the 'non-public medical expense information' from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRAS) on the 27th, the average on-site testing expense for flu at primary medical institutions nationwide is 27,362 won, with a median of 30,000 won. While the price variation for flu tests is generally not large, some medical institutions charge up to 50,000 won.
By region, the median expense is 30,000 won for Seoul, Gyeonggi, Incheon, Gangwon, South Chungcheong, North Gyeongsang, and Daegu, while Sejong has 27,500 won, and the remaining regions are at 25,000 won.
Prices by medical institutions can be checked in advance through the HIRAS website (www.hira.or.kr) or the mobile app 'Health e-Um'. To enhance accessibility for flu tests, a 'quick access' menu has also been added to the main screen.
Currently, HIRAS has made public the expenses of 623 non-reimbursable medical items, including flu tests. Patients can check the expenses for physiotherapy, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, and implants at all hospitals and clinics.
Common flu treatments include the injectable Peramiflu (active ingredient: peramivir) and the oral Tamiflu (active ingredient: oseltamivir). Tamiflu is covered by health insurance, meaning patients will pay less than 10,000 won at any hospital. Peramiflu is a non-reimbursable item, but it is not yet part of the disclosed medical expenses. Its price ranges around 100,000 won, and some hospitals disclose it on their websites.
Occasionally, hospitals may charge expenses exceeding 150,000 won by prescribing vitamin infusions together, so it is advisable to confirm expenses in advance.