Do I need a referral to see an OB/GYN in Busan?

No. You can book directly with a local OB/GYN clinic or walk in. A referral letter is generally only needed if you want to be seen at a large university hospital with NHI rates applied.

Is the national cervical cancer screening free for foreigners?

Women aged 20 and over who are enrolled in NHI (including ARC holders with NHI coverage) are eligible for free cervical screening every two years under the national program. If you're not enrolled, you can still get a Pap test as a self-pay patient.

Can I ask for a female doctor?

Yes. Many Busan clinics have at least one female OB/GYN. Call ahead and ask. The table above shows clinics listed with a female doctor.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Your ARC or passport, a list of any medications, and the date of your last period. If you have earlier test results from abroad, bring copies.

Women's Health Services in Busan | Busan OB/GYN Directory

What women's health care covers

In Korea, most preventive and diagnostic gynecology happens at neighborhood OB/GYN clinics (산부인과). You usually don't need a referral, and many clinics see walk-ins or same-day appointments. Larger women's hospitals and university hospitals handle more complex problems and can take referrals from local clinics.

Common services

Cervical cancer screening and Pap smears: a quick swab of the cervix to detect precancerous changes. Korea's national screening program invites women aged 20 and over every two years.
Pelvic ultrasound: transvaginal or abdominal imaging of the uterus and ovaries, used to look into pain, irregular bleeding, cysts or fibroids.
Hormone blood tests: checks such as FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin, thyroid and AMH for cycle problems, suspected PCOS or menopause.
Fertility assessment and AMH: a first look at ovulation, ovarian reserve and tubal or uterine factors if you're planning a pregnancy or having trouble conceiving.
HPV vaccination: protection against the HPV types that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts.
Annual checkup: a combined visit, often a pelvic exam, Pap test and ultrasound, sometimes with breast ultrasound or STD tests added.

Cost and insurance

If you're enrolled in NHI, care for symptoms (pain, bleeding, discharge) is usually partly covered and you pay a co-payment. The national cervical screening for eligible women is free. Many add-ons, such as screening ultrasounds with no symptoms, HPV vaccines outside the national program, AMH tests and package checkups, are generally self-pay. Prices vary by clinic, so ask for a quote before the visit.

Tips for foreigners

Bring your ARC (or passport if you don't have one). The clinic uses it to check your NHI status.
Call ahead to ask whether a doctor speaks English, whether a female doctor is available, and what the service costs.
Avoid booking a Pap test during your period, and skip vaginal creams or intercourse for a day or two beforehand.
For interpretation help, call the Korea Travel Hotline at 1330. See our international patients guide for more.