Taiwan

After experiencing decades of economic growth, Taiwan started a health reform initiative in the 1980s that resulted in the creation of the National Health Insurance Model by 1995. This government institution delivers universal coverage to all citizens and legal residents of the nation via a government-owned insurer that receives premium split payments from the working population and its employers, as well as flat rates (and even full government subsidies) for the lower classes. The structure in Taiwan also provides ample opportunity for private healthcare systems that cater to both Taiwanese residents and visitors from other nations, as premiums are regulated by the government, and it is well-known that the government is not collecting enough money in premiums to cover the services it provides.

Taiwan has consolidated some of its power in the health tourism industry by simply having better technology than many of its potential competitors. Taiwan’s technology and infrastructure make it a compelling, high-floor destination for many Asian patients. The MTI metrics paint a clear picture of Taiwan as an above-average Asian destination with an established tourism profile. Its Medical Tourism score is higher than both Japan and South Korea, and it earned top-20 scores in Facilities, Quality of Care, Reputation, and Patient Experience. It scored 11th in Accreditation, ahead of South Korea and Thailand.

*Based on the 2020 – 2021 Global MTI (Medical Tourism Index) Report published by the Medical Tourism Association.*