⮪ GuidesUpdated 2/19/2025 - 8 min read

Seeing a Doctor

Taiwan's healthcare system is recognized for its efficiency and affordability, largely due to its National Health Insurance (NHI), which covers over 99% of residents. The country's medical services rank among the best globally, with life expectancy at 80.6 years and a low infant mortality rate of 3.7 per 1,000 live births. Taiwan is a leader in organ transplantation, with a 95% success rate for liver transplants, and its hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge technology. The healthcare system is also a major draw for medical tourism, with approximately 300,000 international patients visiting annually for services like cosmetic surgery and dental care.

National Health Insurance

Most medical costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and medication, are subsidized under the NHI. Foreigners living in Taiwan, whether students, workers, or long-term visitors, are eligible to access healthcare services.

NHI Application

  1. Eligibility Check: : Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. Generally, foreign residents who hold a valid Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and have resided in Taiwan for more than six months are eligible.

  2. Register with the National Immigration Agency (NIA): : If you haven't already, register your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) with the National Immigration Agency.

  3. Gather Required Documents: : Prepare the following documents:

    • Valid ARC
    • Passport
    • Proof of residence (e.g., rental contract, utility bills)
    • Employment or student status (if applicable)
    • Other relevant identification or documents requested by the local NHI office

  4. Visit the Local NHI Office: : Go to the local NHI office in your area (typically at your city or district office). You can also apply through your employer if you're employed.

  5. Complete Application Forms: : Fill out the application form provided by the NHI office. Some offices may also require additional paperwork depending on your specific status (e.g., student or employee).

  6. Pay the Premium: : Foreign residents are required to pay NHI premiums. The amount is typically based on income and varies by employment status (employed, self-employed, or unemployed). Employers usually deduct premiums from salaries, while self-employed individuals and students pay directly.

  7. Receive NHI Card: : Once your application is processed, you will receive your NHI card, which grants access to healthcare services under Taiwan’s NHI system.

  8. Activate Your Coverage: : Your NHI coverage will be activated after paying the required premium. Ensure that you make regular payments to maintain coverage.

Key Features

Tips

Preparing for a Visit

Before visiting a doctor, ensure you have the necessary documents and understand the type of medical facility that suits your needs.

Preparing for a Doctor's Visit

  1. Obtain a National Health Insurance Card (健保卡, Jiàn bǎo kǎ): If you're a resident of Taiwan, apply for an NHI card through your employer, school, or local NHI office. This card is essential for accessing subsidized healthcare services.
  2. Identify the Right Medical Facility:
    • Clinics (診所, Zhěn suǒ): Best for minor illnesses and general consultations.
    • Hospitals (醫院, Yī yuàn): Suitable for specialized care, emergencies, or surgeries.
    • Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinics (中醫診所, Zhōng yī zhěn suǒ): For treatments like acupuncture and herbal medicine.
  3. Check the Doctor's Schedule: Use online platforms like the hospital's website or apps like “My Health Bank” (健康存摺, Jiàn kāng cún zhé) to find doctors and check availability.
  4. Prepare Medical Records: Bring past medical records, prescriptions, and a list of current medications if applicable.

Booking an Appointment

While many clinics accept walk-ins, booking an appointment ensures shorter wait times and better access to your preferred doctor.

How to Book an Appointment

  1. Online Booking: Many hospitals and clinics in Taiwan have websites or apps for scheduling appointments. Search for your preferred facility and follow the instructions to book a time slot. Look for the term “掛號” (Guà hào), meaning “registration.”
  2. Call the Facility: Contact the clinic or hospital directly to book an appointment. Use phrases like, "我要掛號 (Wǒ yào guà hào)" which means “I want to register.” Ensure you have your NHI card and personal details ready.
  3. Visit in Person: If online or phone booking isn't available, visit the clinic or hospital early to secure a walk-in slot. Look for signs like “掛號處” (Guà hào chù) for the registration desk.

During Your Visit

  1. Registration: Upon arrival, present your NHI card (健保卡) and register at the front desk. You will receive a queue number (號碼, Hào mǎ) or confirmation of your appointment.
  2. Consultation: Meet with the doctor to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and concerns. Many doctors speak basic English. To describe symptoms in Mandarin, you can use phrases like "我覺得不舒服 (Wǒ jué de bù shū fú)" meaning “I feel unwell.”
  3. Receive a Prescription (處方, Chǔ fāng): If medication is needed, the doctor will issue a prescription. In many cases, the hospital or clinic has an on-site pharmacy (藥局, Yào jú) where you can fill it immediately.

Post-Visit Steps

After your consultation, follow these steps to ensure a complete recovery or proper follow-up care:

  1. Fill Prescriptions: If the facility does not have an on-site pharmacy, take your prescription to any NHI-approved pharmacy. Look for signs like “健保特約藥局” (Jiàn bǎo tè yuē yào jú), meaning "NHI contracted pharmacy."
  2. Follow the Doctor's Advice: Adhere to prescribed medications, therapies, or lifestyle changes recommended by your doctor.
  3. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: If required, book a follow-up visit to monitor your progress or receive additional treatment.

Emergency Medical Care

In emergencies, Taiwan's healthcare system ensures rapid and effective care. Call 119 (急救, Jí jiù) for an ambulance or head to the nearest hospital emergency room (急診室, Jí zhěn shì).