Verified Facts
Taiwan has a well-regarded healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care to its citizens and visitors, with a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, as well as a comprehensive health insurance system.
Quick Facts
Healthcare Overview
Taiwan's healthcare system is a universal system, which provides comprehensive coverage to all citizens. The system is primarily funded through a mandatory health insurance program, which is managed by the Bureau of National Health Insurance (BNHI). The quality of care in Taiwan is generally high, with well-trained medical professionals and modern medical facilities. The healthcare system is well-organized, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and public health programs. However, there may be some differences in the quality of care between urban and rural areas, with urban areas tend to have more advanced medical facilities and specialized care.
The healthcare system in Taiwan is a mixed system, with both public and private providers. Public hospitals are generally well-equipped and provide high-quality care, while private hospitals tend to offer more specialized and advanced care. The public healthcare system is generally more affordable, while private healthcare can be more expensive. Despite these differences, the overall quality of care in Taiwan is high, and the country is known for its excellent healthcare system.
In terms of access to healthcare, Taiwan has made significant progress in recent years. The country has a high density of healthcare providers, with a large number of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies throughout the country. This means that citizens and visitors have easy access to medical care, regardless of where they are in the country. Additionally, the healthcare system is well-organized, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and public health programs.
Hospitals & Clinics
| Facility | Location | Type | Specialties | English-Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Taiwan University Hospital | Taipei | Public | General, specialized | Yes |
| Taipei Veterans General Hospital | Taipei | Public | General, specialized | Yes |
| Mackay Memorial Hospital | Taipei | Private | General, specialized | Yes |
| Chang Gung Memorial Hospital | Taoyuan | Private | General, specialized | Yes |
| Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital | Kaohsiung | Public | General, specialized | Limited |
| China Medical University Hospital | Taichung | Public | General, specialized | Limited |
Health Insurance
- Taiwan's national health insurance program provides comprehensive coverage to all citizens, including foreigners who are residents or working in the country
- Private health insurance is also available, and is often used to supplement the national health insurance program
- Expats and visitors can purchase private health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in Taiwan
- The cost of health insurance in Taiwan is generally affordable, with premiums ranging from 5-10% of monthly income
- Some employers in Taiwan may offer health insurance as part of their benefits package
- It is recommended that visitors and expats purchase health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in Taiwan, as medical costs can be high
Pharmacies & Medications
- Pharmacies are widespread in Taiwan, with many locations throughout the country
- Many medications are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription from a licensed medical professional
- Prescription medications are generally affordable, with prices regulated by the government
- Common brands of medications are available in Taiwan, including international brands
- Some traditional Chinese medicines are also available in Taiwan, although their efficacy and safety may not be well-documented
Vaccinations & Health Risks
- Visitors to Taiwan should be up-to-date on all routine vaccinations, including MMR, DTaP, and flu
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are also recommended for travelers to Taiwan
- Taiwan is considered to be a low-risk country for most infectious diseases, although there may be some risk of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses
- Water safety is generally good in Taiwan, although visitors should take precautions to avoid drinking tap water
- Food safety is also generally good in Taiwan, although visitors should take precautions to avoid eating undercooked or raw foods
- Taiwan is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes and typhoons, and visitors should be prepared for emergency situations
Medical Tourism
- Taiwan is a popular destination for medical tourism, with many high-quality hospitals and clinics that offer specialized care
- Popular procedures for medical tourism in Taiwan include cosmetic surgery, orthopedic surgery, and fertility treatments
- Many hospitals in Taiwan are accredited by international organizations, such as the Joint Commission International (JCI)
- The cost of medical care in Taiwan is generally lower than in many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for medical tourists
- However, visitors should be cautious and do their research before seeking medical care in Taiwan, as the quality of care can vary
Emergency Procedures
- In the event of an emergency, visitors should call the emergency number 119
- Ambulance services are generally reliable and efficient in Taiwan
- Visitors should be prepared to provide their health insurance information and other relevant details in the event of an emergency
- Nearest hospitals can be found by asking locals or using a mapping app
- Visitors should also be aware of the location of the nearest hospital and the emergency procedures in place, in case of an emergency
- It is also recommended to have a list of important phone numbers, including the embassy and insurance provider, in case of an emergency.