Home-Based Primary Care for Aging Populations in Korea: Practices, Competencies, and Training Demands of Providers

As the Korean population ages rapidly, the need for home-based primary care (HBPC) is increasing, particularly among individuals with mobility limitations. In 2022, the Korean government launched Home-Based Primary Care for Long-Term Care Recipients (HBPC-LTC), but data on its operational status, service scope, and educational needs are limited.

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted from October 21 to November 1, 2024. A total of 57 out of 95 certified HBPC-LTC centers (60.0%) responded to the survey. The survey collected data on institutional characteristics, service delivery, operational challenges, and training requirements. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

Most HBPC-LTC centers are private clinics, with limited public sector participation. Services focus on prescribing medications, consultations, and wound care, while few provide advanced procedures or 24-hour care. Centers reported difficulties with staffing, patient recruitment, and collaboration with administrative systems. Participation in palliative care and integrated service programs remains low. Although most providers completed basic training, there was a strong demand for multidisciplinary and practice-based education. International comparisons revealed insufficient systemic support in Korea, including standardized service guidelines and coordinated governance.

HBPC-LTC centers provide essential services but face challenges in workforce structure, service scope, inter-agency collaboration, and training. Strengthening Korea's HBPC-LTC model requires expanded institutional support, improved infrastructure, and tailored education programs that reflect clinical complexity.