Cabinet approves NT$48.9 billion plan to improve healthcare

Taipei, March 27 (CNA) The Executive Yuan on Thursday approved a plan to inject NT$48.9 billion (US$1.47 billion) over five years to improve working conditions in Taiwan's medical facilities as well as three other key healthcare-related areas.

The plan, which takes effect from this year until 2029, is aimed at making Taiwan the most medically-advanced nation in the Asia-Pacific region, according to the Cabinet.

The three other areas include diverse talent cultivation, smart medical services and social responsibility in healthcare.

Healthcare facilities and medical groups, such as medical societies and associations, will be able to propose projects and apply for funding in any of the four areas.

Citing Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) during a press conference, Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝) said that since the plan involves substantial funding, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) must carefully review each proposal it receives and prevent "large entities from getting all the money."

Cho asked that the principles of inclusiveness, fairness and sustainability should be upheld, allowing medical professionals in a range of fields to receive support and ensuring the proper allocation of resources, Lee said.

Building a "healthy Taiwan" is a key policy of President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), she said, indicating that through this plan, the government aims to help the healthcare system overcome existing limitations and create a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system.

The goal is to comprehensively enhance Taiwan's overall medical environment while promoting public well-being and health, she added.