Is there a disadvantage to having a psychiatric record? Misconceptions and Truths about PsychiatryPsychiatric Specialist Mikyung Jeon

There are two questions that patients who visit a psychiatrist often ask about their medical records. The first is insurance, and the second is employment. Today, we're going to take the time to answer these questions.

Is psychiatric care covered by insurance?

Prior to 2016, insurance did not cover psychiatric illnesses. However, in 2016, thanks to the contributions of the Korean Neuropsychiatric Association, the law was amended to allow psychiatric clinics to cover actual expenses, and after 2017, insurance can cover actual expenses. Therefore, if you are looking for coverage for psychiatric care, you should check the information when you purchase your insurance.

Are there any disadvantages to getting insurance if I go to psychiatric care?

The rules for psychiatric records vary slightly depending on the insurance company and product. Therefore, you should ask your insurance company if the question is accurate.

Is having a psychiatric record a disadvantage for employment?

This question will be divided into questions and explained to the employment agency.

First, if you are employed by a private company, you will not be penalized for your psychiatric record. This is because it is impossible for companies to access a patient's psychiatric care. Article 21, paragraph 1 of the Medical Law states that medical records cannot be provided to third parties, including family members and state agencies, without the consent of the patient himself/herself. The only exception is with a search warrant.

Second, in the case of public servants, a record of a mental illness that significantly interferes with the performance of their duties can be problematic. However, mental illnesses that interfere with work performance do not include general depression or panic disorder, so you can think that there are no major restrictions on becoming a public servant.

Third, in the case of special occupations such as the NIS and airline pilots, we know that some mental illness records are a restriction on employment. However, it is best to contact the appropriate official agency for the restriction criteria for these occupations.

Fourth, for medical professionals such as doctors, dentists, acupuncturists, nurses, and midwives, mental illness is also a disqualification. Mental illness is defined as a mental illness in which delusions, hallucinations, and impaired thinking or mood have significant limitations in the ability to lead an independent daily life. After all, general depression and panic disorder do not have much disadvantage.