Affordable UHC

The National Health Insurance program, a major component of Taiwan’s universal health care system, was launched on March 1, 1995. NHI is a single-payer compulsory 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 the NHI is compulsory for all citizens and eligible foreign residents. As of December 2024, about 91.01 percent of medical facilities in Taiwan have signed contracts with the NHI, allowing the insured easy access to a range of health care providers and services. Coverage includes dental care, inpatient and outpatient services, childbirth, tests and exams, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and traditional Chinese medicine. The 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 a core principle 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 quality medical care. With the NHI in place for nearly three decades, Taiwan has accumulated extensive expertise that can benefit countries working to implement similar programs. Taiwan is ready and willing to share its experiences to facilitate the third SDG: ensuring healthy lives and promoting well being at all ages. When it comes to realizing health for all, Taiwan can help.