Taiwan is likely to turn into a super-aged society in 2026. Therefore, a complete community-based integrated care system is urgently needed. However, gaps exist in relevant policies and the system. Consequently, NHIA announced today (November 25) the implementation of Home-based Integrated Care Program 2.0 in the first half of next year. Measures of the new program include allowing home care services to treat critical conditions like infections and fever, and extending the applicability of the service to institution residents. It is estimated to benefit 200,000 people.

NHIA Director General Chung-Liang Shih said that in response to the aging society, a home-based medical care program has been implemented. In the future, the program shall be expanded in three aspects. First, home health care services used to only handle patients with chronic diseases and disabilities in a stable condition. However, acute situations may occur occasionally with the majority being infections and fevers. Starting next year, home health care personnel are allowed to perform critical care, treating infections or administering antibiotics in a way similar to the measures taken in realizing the concept of Hospital at Home.

Second, home health care used to be limited to the patient's home. However, with the development of the long-term care system, many patients now live in a long-term care institution. Starting next year, the home-based medical care program will also be applicable to institution residents. Third, thanks to the introduction of relevant technologies, telemedicine will be applied in providing home-based medical care.

General Director Shih specified that the initial number of patients enrolled in the program is 200,000, of which, 80,000 are from the current home care program and 120,000 are from the institutions. The estimated budget is between 500 to 700 million NTD. A trial will take place first in the first half of the coming year when relevant laws and regulations concerning telemedicine are promulgated.