Affordable UHC

A major component of Taiwan’s universal health care system, the National Health Insurance program, was launched on March 1, 1995. NHI is a single-payer insurance program administered by the National Health Insurance Administration. This approach operates with exceptionally low administrative costs in comparison to those of other countries. Premiums are equitable and affordable and provide users with access to quality medical care. By law, enrollment in NHI is compulsory for all citizens and eligible foreign residents. Meanwhile, about 91.86 percent of medical facilities in Taiwan are NHI-contracted (2023.3), allowing the insured easy access to a range of health care providers and services including surgical procedures and hospitalization. Coverage includes dental care, inpatient and outpatient services, childbirth, tests and exams, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and traditional Chinese medicine. NHI provides all of Taiwan’s citizens and residents with affordable, cost-effective, efficient, high-quality and safe health care and drugs. This achievement has been widely acclaimed by the international community.

Universal health coverage is one of the core principles of the World Health Organization, as specified in the global body’s constitution. To promote this concept around the world in line with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, the WHO advocates essential coverage and services across 16 indicators in four categories. Taiwan has achieved exceptional achievements including universal coverage, comprehensive benefits, easy access to medical care, high public satisfaction and high medical standards. In addition, with the NHI in place for more than two decades, Taiwan has accumulated extensive expertise that can benefit countries working to implement similar programs. Taiwan is ready and willing to share its experience so as to assist nations in achieving the third SDG of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being at all ages. When it comes to realizing health for all, Taiwan Can Help.