The National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) continues to strengthen vision care for children and adolescents. Starting from August 1, 2026, atropine 0.05% eye drops have been included in NHI coverage for myopia control in children and adolescents under 18 years of age. The measure is expected to benefit approximately 365,000 children and adolescents with myopia.

NHIA Director General Lian-Yu Chen stated that clinical studies show low-concentration atropine exerts a cycloplegic effect that helps slow myopia progression in children. Compared with atropine eye drops at concentrations of 0.1% or higher, low-concentration atropine is less likely to cause side effects such as visible pupil dilation, light sensitivity, and reduced near accommodative ability. The concentration of atropine required for myopia control varies among children and should be adjusted individually based on age, rate of myopia progression, and treatment response. The NHIA included atropine 0.01% eye drops in NHI coverage on May 1, 2023, with one bottle prescribed every four weeks. Starting August 1, 2026, the NHIA has further expanded coverage to include atropine 0.05% eye drops, allowing ophthalmologists to choose the appropriate concentration for each pediatric patient's condition and enabling greater treatment flexibility.

The NHIA will continue to incorporate evidence-based treatment measures while balancing clinical needs, and financial sustainability to improve healthcare accessibility and safeguard public health.