The National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) has expanded reimbursement for immunotherapy in the treatment of late-stage lung adenocarcinoma, aligning the coverage with international guidelines. This announcement has been welcomed by the Formosa Cancer Foundation, lung cancer–related medical associations, clinical experts, patient groups, and politicians.
Data from Phase III clinical trials of pembrolizumab-based drugs show that, compared to the chemotherapy placebo group, these drugs significantly prolonged median overall survival by 11.4 months as a first-line treatment for all metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer. Similarly, Phase III trial data for atezolizumab-based drugs indicate a significant increase in median overall survival by 4.8 months compared to the group receiving bevacizumab combined with platinum-based chemotherapy.
Dr. Shih Chung-Liang, Director General of the NHIA, noted that the agency has set a clear direction toward enhancing drug treatments and aligning with international guidelines. He estimated that the new reimbursement policy will benefit approximately 2,000 families affected by lung cancer.
Ms. Tsai Li-Chuan, Vice CEO of the Formosa Cancer Foundation, pointed out that some patients have been unable to access better and more effective treatments due to financial constraints. She emphasized that this new reimbursement policy not only marks an important milestone but also sets an international benchmark for lung cancer care.
Ms. Pang Yi-Ling, President of the Taiwan Young Patient Association, stated that this new policy offers hope and encouragement for young patients to continue their fight against cancer and strive for a full recovery.
Dr. Chen Yu-Ming, President of the Taiwan Society of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, stated that immunotherapy has already become a standard treatment. Cancer treatment guidelines in both the United States and Taiwan recommend immunotherapy, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy, as a first-line treatment for patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma without tumor gene mutations. Dr. Huang Ming-Shyan, President of the Taiwan Clinical Oncology Society, noted that the expanded reimbursement policy will help close the treatment gap and improve access to new drugs.
Dr. Tsai Chen-Liang, President of the Taiwan Lung Cancer Society, stated that the Society continuously updates its lung cancer treatment guidelines to stay aligned with international practices. He emphasized that this new policy addresses real clinical needs. Dr. Yang Chi-Hsin, Superintendent of the NTUH Cancer Center, noted that the policy will also support researchers in Taiwan in collecting real-world data and participating in international studies, ultimately contributing to future improvements in treatment guidelines.
Legislator Liu Chien-Kuo (DPP) stated that this year marks the launch of the NT$5 billion cancer drug fund. He expressed his gratitude to the government for making progress on cancer-related issues and for providing patients with more treatment options and renewed hope. He also pledged to continue advocating for patients' rights in the future.
Dr. Chen Jen-Shi, President of the Taiwan Oncology Society, stated that lung cancer has long been the leading cause of cancer-related death in Taiwan. He noted that this new policy will certainly support the government's goal of building a “Healthy Taiwan.” He also expressed hope that similar policies will be applied to the treatment of other types of cancer.
【2025-06-10 / Liberty Times】
