Incheon Michuhol District Council Member Jang Gyu-cheol, "There Should Be No One Who Misses Out on Transportation Support for Pregnant Women Due to Lack of Information"

Jang Gyu-cheol, a member of the Michuhol District Council (People Power Party, Yonghyeon 5, Hakik 1, Gwangkyo, Munhak), urged the establishment of an effective promotional system so that the low birth rate measures currently being implemented in the district do not become obsolete due to lack of information.

During the report on the welfare and construction committee's work at the 293rd extraordinary session of the Michuhol District Council held on the 28th, Council Member Jang focused on questioning the application process and promotional methods for the 'Transportation Support Program for Pregnant Women.' This program requires pregnant women to apply directly by submitting proof of childbirth documents issued by obstetrics and gynecology departments.

Council Member Jang pointed out, "Although this program is a practical help for pregnant women when they travel for medical treatment, the absence of an automated system creates inconvenience as the beneficiaries must recognize and apply for it themselves," and added, "There is a significant risk of an 'information gap' where only those who know about the information can benefit from it."

In particular, Council Member Jang expressed disappointment at the lack of organic data linkage with institutions that pregnant women must go through, such as health centers and obstetrics and gynecology departments, stating, "Rather than simply waiting for applications, a proactive system is needed at the district office level to identify and guide potential beneficiaries."

In response, a district official stated, "Currently, we are operating on an individual application basis, but we are conducting various promotional activities, such as sending promotional documents to local obstetrics and gynecology departments, health centers, and administrative welfare centers, as well as sending guidance text messages to ensure that no pregnant women are overlooked."

Council Member Jang urged, "The effectiveness of childbirth encouragement policies is crucial," and requested, "At the very least, within Michuhol District, please ensure that not a single pregnant woman misses out on benefits due to lack of knowledge about the support available by implementing thorough administration."