Taiwan launches NHI rehabilitation ward pilot program

Taiwan has launched the ‘National Health Insurance Rehabilitation Ward Pilot Program’ as part of its Long-term Care 3.0 initiative. The program aims to transition healthcare focus from merely ‘caring for disability’ to ‘reducing disability’ by providing intensive rehabilitation services following acute treatment.

President Lai Ching-te attended the launch event at Yuan-Guo Hospital in Changhua County. The National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) has allocated 300 million TWD to support the first phase of the project, which involves 10 hospitals nationwide. The program is expected to provide intensive inpatient rehabilitation for approximately 1,600 patients annually, specifically targeting those with needs such as stroke or fracture recovery.

A key feature of the program is ‘home environment simulation,’ which helps patients practice daily activities like walking, dressing, and eating in a controlled setting to prepare for a smooth transition back to independent living. The initiative utilizes multidisciplinary teams, including specialists in physical, occupational, and speech therapy, to create individualized treatment plans.