Pingtung County residents reach 6,694 advance medical directive signatures

Pingtung County has seen 6,694 residents complete advance medical directive (AD) signatures as part of an initiative to promote patient autonomy. The Pingtung County Health Bureau is working with 30 medical institutions to provide advance care planning (ACP) counseling services.

Since May 1, 2025, the scope of counseling services has expanded to include outpatient departments and primary clinics. Eligible groups include patients aged 65 and older with major illnesses, those meeting hospice care criteria, individuals with mild dementia, and patients with specific announced medical conditions.

Health Bureau Director Chang Hsiu-chun stated that advance medical directives are not about abandoning treatment, but about reserving the right to make choices in advance. Once signed, these decisions are noted on the National Health Insurance card to ensure future medical care aligns with the individual's wishes and to reduce the decision-making burden on family members.