The MOHW announced the implementation of the adjustment of NHI co-payments for outpatient prescriptions and A&E services. The new rates, which are to take effect from July 1st, aim to support the full implementation of the referral system and to improve patient’s medical service-seeking behaviour. As usual, measures for protecting disadvantaged groups are in place. Those who are currently exempt from co-payment will not be affected. Patients with chronic conditions will be encouraged to access medical services in primary care clinics so that big hospitals can concentrate on treating patients with severe conditions.
The NHIA raises the upper limit of the co-payment for outpatient prescriptions in medical centers and regional hospitals to NT$300. As for repeated prescriptions for chronic conditions, patients have to pay the co-payment for their first fill, and there are no charges for follow-up refills. Patients visiting primary care clinics for chronic conditions are exempt for prescription co-payment. Patients at low income or with disabilities are charged at the co-payment rate for primary care clinics, regardless of the level of the hospitals they visit.
For A&E services, the co-payment is increased to NT$750 (NT$550 for disadvantaged groups) at medical centers, and NT$400 (NT$300 for disadvantaged groups) at regional hospital. The charges at district hospitals and primary care clinics remain at NT$150.
According to the NHIA, the existing reduced charges or waivers for disadvantaged groups or for those receiving social support will not be affected by the new co-payments.
【2023-06-21/Economic Daily】
