On March 30, 2022, the NHIA approved a new incentive policy to encourage a successful removal of long-term indwelling nasogastric tubes and restoration to oral feeding. It is estimated that nearly 13,000 patients will benefit by this treatment each year.
     According to Dr. Po-Chang Lee, Director General of the NHIA, the most direct impact from having an indwelling nasogastric tube is on the patient's appearance. Not only does the patient suffer from their own particular illness, they also receive undue psychological stress from how they look—their life quality and dignity suffer greatly. It is for that reason that physicians ought to conceive of the best treatment for the patient from the patient's point of view. Thus, removing nasogastric tubes for patients has been a constant consideration for the NHIA over the last several years.
     NHI has covered various assessments, examinations, and training items required for nasogastric tubes removal. Now, a new incentive policy for the successful removal of long-term indwelling nasogastric tubes and restoration to oral feeding has been launched. It encourages medical teams to actively remove patients' nasogastric tubes and help them back to normal life. The NHIA also encourages healthcare providers to actively provide patients integrated care, not only removing nasogastric tubes from patients but also helping them live with dignity and quality.