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The National Health Insurance (NHI) program provides health care for the population and is administrated by the Department of Health of the Executive Yuan. The program was instituted in 1995. It is a single-payer compulsory social insurance plan which centralizes the disbursement of health-care funds. NHI is mainly financed through premiums, which are based on the payroll tax, and is supplemented with out-of-pocket payments and direct government funding.

The Health IC smart card helps to identify and reduce insurance fraud, overcharges, duplication of services and tests. The insurer is billed the medical bill and it is automatically paid. Taiwan's single-payer insurer monitors standards, usage and quality of treatment for diagnosis by requiring the providers to submit a full report every 24 hours. This improves quality of treatment and limits physicians from over prescribing medications as well as keeps patients from abusing the system.

The plan offers expanded coverage for an employee's family, including an individuals parents, full coverage of serious illness, maternity care and certain preventive care.

Taiwan nationals are covered if they have maintained a registered household in Taiwan for at least 4 months. Foreigners (and their dependents) are eligible for these benefits if they have resided in Taiwan for at least four months and have an Alien Resident Certificate.

Taiwan has the lowest administration cost in the world of 2%, largely because of the success associated with NHI.

Private Insurance

If you are not eligible for NHI or prefer a private option, there are private providers. Travel insurance is one of the best options for short term travel. You will find more details in our Travel Guide.