HEALTH FOR ALL TAIWAN CAN HELP Clarion Call

he global outbreak of coronavirus, for many to better understand and fully appreci- fi rst reported in the Chinese city of ate the ways Taiwan Can Help. CLARION CALL 03 Wuhan late last year, is presenting Necessity is the mother of invention. Taiwan the international community with has taken the spirit of this proverb to heart, HEALTH NEWS 04 an unprecedented array of economic, medical, using it to shape a policy applied with great vim political and social challenges. Taiwan, on the and vigor to coronavirus-fighting efforts. When 08 T LEADING BY EXAMPLE front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic less signs first surfaced of atypical pneumonia cases INTERVIEW BY OSCAR CHUNG than 130 kilometers from China, is not immune. in Wuhan, the Ministry of Health and Welfare 12 In fact, the country is soldiering on outside (MOHW) and Centers for Disease Control EXPANDING OUTREACH the support network of the World Health (CDC) drew on the country’s deep experience Reprinted from January / February 2020 issue of Taiwan Review BY KELLY HER Organization (WHO). with severe acute respiratory syndrome and This wholly unsatisfactory state of affairs immediately took action. NEW LEASE ON LIFE 18 is the direct result of China’s refusal to allow This included carrying out onboard health BY MEG CHANG Taiwan a voice in the WHO. Despite a highly inspections of passengers returning from Wuhan, touted National Health Insurance system and fever screening of arrivals, and contact, occupation BORDERLESS CARE 20 a long track record of successful cross-border and travel assessments. Other measures comprised medical initiatives benefiting people of all eth- implementing mandatory reporting of severe nicities, the country remains shut out of the U.N. clinical cases by health care facilities and height- specialized agency on political grounds. Such a ened protective equipment standards for at-risk blinkered and politically motivated approach, medical personnel, as well as raising awareness of which threatens the health and well-being of prevention measures among travelers and keeping Taiwan’s 23 million people, makes no sense when the public abreast of the latest related develop- the international family of nations needs to come ments via TV and social media platforms. together in combating coronavirus and realizing What was perceived at the time as an aggres- Health For All. sive strategy by the MOHW and CDC saved Despite receiving a cold shoulder from the lives and is now known globally as the Taiwan WHO, Taiwan is warmly embraced by allies and Model. It also opened the door for the country like-minded partners, as well as governmental to collaborate closely with natural allies on coro- and nongovernmental bodies acting honestly, navirus vaccine development and studies through openly and transparently in the best interests of Academia Sinica—Taiwan’s foremost research those they represent.  ese countries and groups institution—and share surgical masks, forehead are rallying to a noble cause, voicing support for thermometers, gloves, goggles, gowns, rapid test- Taiwan and the need for its meaningful participa- ing kits and other equipment. Agreements with tion in the activities, mechanisms and meetings of nations the world over regarding donations and the WHO like the 73rd World Health Assembly exchanges of such essential medical items have (WHA) scheduled for May 17-21 in Geneva. generated widespread media coverage, winning The unprecedented backing comes from all the country even more friends abroad. COVER DESIGN BY LIN CHIEN-JU corners. Leaders, lawmakers, medical experts, With the COVID-19 pandemic showing no media pundits, activists and celebrities are among sign of abating, cooperation, friendship, support, Published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a growing legion acknowledging Taiwan as a trust and unity are just what the doctor ordered Republic of China (Taiwan) 2 Ketagalan Blvd., Taipei 10048, Taiwan, ROC beacon of freedom, democracy, human rights to allow the world to heal. It is long past time for http://www.mofa.gov.tw and rules-based order, as well as a force for good the WHO to heed the clarion call of the interna- Catalog Card No.: MOFA-EN-BL-109-001-I-1 in the world. Sadly and regrettably, it took the tional community and give Taiwan a seat at the ■ First edition, C15 May 2020 COVID-19 pandemic to create the conditions WHA table.

3 Health News Taiwan’s eff orts managing coronavirus earn international acclaim Taiwan’s eff ective coronavirus-fi ghting eff orts have earned acclaim across international media, featuring in articles from 243 outlets and spotlighting growing support worldwide for the country’s inclusion in the activities, mechanisms and meetings of the World Health Organization (WHO), according to the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs World leaders praise Taiwan’s eff orts (MOFA) March 6. In an article titled “ e Coronavirus Outbreak: fi ghting coronavirus How Democratic Taiwan Outperformed Authoritarian China” in  e Diplomat, Victor Pu said Taiwan has shown the world the Taiwan’s use of timely, transparent and high-tech methods to best defense against disease is free fl ow of information. Taiwan’s combat coronavirus has earned praise from the leaders of allies success comes despite continued shutout from the WHO as noted and like-minded partners around the world, according to the by David Keene in his piece headlined “Playing coronavirus politics: Ministry of Foreign Aff airs (MOFA) March 24. New Zealand China puts Taiwan and world at risk” in  e Washington Times. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in an interview March He said Taiwan has abundant experience and expertise stemming 15 that when it comes to coronavirus, the country intends to from the 2003 severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak, adding that in the face of COVID-19, China should no closely follow the “Taiwanese model.” She cited guidelines for longer block Taiwan’s membership of the global body. Other editorials, opinion pieces and stories have been published mass gatherings, which she believes have been instrumental in by media outlets including  e Guardian and  e Edinburgh Reporter from the U.K.; Le Monde and TourMag. helping prevent community spread of the disease.  is follows com, France; International Aff airs Review, India; Gazeta Wyborcza, Poland; Fodor’s Travel, Canada; Getaway, South Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech March Africa; and  e Star, St. Lucia. According to the MOFA, a growing chorus backing Taiwan’s inclusion in the WHO is 14 at his Jerusalem offi ce, where he announced intentions to use similar technological methods as those implemented testament to the country’s contributions to global public health.  e government will continue working with allies and by Taiwan to track the virus’s spread. Nicaragua Vice President Rosario Murillo also announced March 11 that the like-minded partners to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the ministry added. Central American ally will ask for advice on disease-fi ghting measures from Taiwan’s ambassador to the country. In a Time magazine article published March 18 titled “Taiwan Has Been Shut Out of Global Health Discussions. Its Participation Could Have Saved Lives,” former Denmark Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen described the country’s application of big data, centralized command and clear messaging as highly eff ective, adding that the MOFA thanks UK lawmakers for President Tsai signs COVID-19 relief act World Health Organization needs Taiwan at the table. Approval also came from offi cials, lawmakers and medical supporting Taiwan A bill aimed at professionals of diplomatic allies Belize, Paraguay, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as like- A letter by 55 U.K. lawmakers sent to the World mitigating any minded partners in Argentina, Canada, Colombia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Panama, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Health Organization (WHO) expressing grave impact from Switzerland, Venezuela, the Netherlands, the U.S., the U.K. and the European Parliament. concern over its unfair treatment of Taiwan is highly the COVID- appreciated, according to the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs 19 outbreak was (MOFA) March 4. Signed by Lord Rogan and Martin signed into law Vickers—co-chairs of the British-Taiwanese All- by President Tsai Partnerships to combat COVID-19 agreed with 蔡英 Party Parliamentary Group—and 53 other lawmakers Ing-wen ( US, EU 文 from both houses of the British Parliament, the letter ) Feb. 25 at Taiwan will work with the U.S. and EU to combat COVID- urges WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom the Presidential 19, spotlighting the country’s commitment to sharing its Ghebreyesus to correct the global body’s wrongful Offi ce in Taipei expertise with like-minded partners, according to the Ministry classifi cation of Taiwan as under China’s jurisdiction. City, reaffi rming the government’s commitment to of Foreign Aff airs (MOFA) March 19.  e Taiwan-U.S. Joint  e WHO’s erroneous reports regarding the COVID- ensuring public health while maintaining social and Statement on a Partnership against Coronavirus signed by 19 outbreak are impeding timely information exchanges, economic stability. Eff ective retrospectively from Jan. 吳釗燮 MOFA Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu ( ) and American the lawmakers said, noting that Taiwan’s experience 15 and running through June 30, 2021, the relief act Institute in Taiwan Director Brent Christensen March 18 and expertise in dealing with health emergencies could comprises 18 articles providing compensation, subsidies states that both sides will share best practices and collaborate be of great value to the international community.  e and tax breaks for businesses, individuals, medical on activities including R&D of rapid testing kits, medicines sentiment was shared by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, institutions, schools and other organizations aff ected and vaccines; contact tracing techniques and technology; minister of state for the Commonwealth and the U.N., by COVID-19. It also off ers rewards for those who joint conferences by scientists and experts; and cooperation in a written answer Feb. 26 to a question by Lord make signifi cant contributions to outbreak prevention and exchange of medical supplies and equipment.  e statement signifi es Taiwan’s continuing work with the U.S. in Blencathra. Ahmad stressed the importance of allowing and outlines punishments for violating disease-related the fi ght against coronavirus, the MOFA said, adding that sharing data and resources while utilizing cutting-edge all countries and territories, including Taiwan, full access regulations. According to the Ministry of Health and techniques could help safeguard the health and well-being of people around the world. A tie-up between Academia to the latest information on coronavirus.  e reply Welfare (MOHW), the act is a legal foundation for the Sinica and the EU was also announced by the country’s top research institution and Filip Grzegorzewski, head of follows the minister’s oral response to Baroness Falkner government to issue responsive epidemic-fi ghting decrees 廖俊 European Economic and Trade Offi ce in Taiwan. According to Academia Sinica President James C. Liao ( of Margravine, Lord Collins of Highbury and Lord or measures, such as expropriating private facilities and 智 ), the organization is ramping up virus research, as evidenced by plans to build an open science platform featuring Dholakia Feb. 10 in the upper house. Taiwan can play a materials when necessary.  e MOHW said a special coronavirus-related work from 15 domestic research institutes.  e results will be shared with EU member states to vital role as an observer at events like the World Health budget of NT$60 billion (US$1.97 billion) has been set help manage COVID-19, he added. Assembly, he said. aside for the act, pending review by the Legislature.

4 5 MOHW sets up Taiwan epidemic command center NCKU team’s chronic kidney disease solution bags iGEM gold

A Central Epidemic Command Center was established Jan. 20 by Taiwan’s An innovative solution for chronic kidney disease (CKD) developed Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) to manage the response to a by a team from Tainan City-based National Cheng Kung new coronavirus fi rst discovered in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year. University (NCKU) in southern Taiwan won gold at the recently 周志浩 Overseen by Chou Jih-haw ( ), director-general of the MOHW’s staged International Genetically Engineered Machine competition Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the center will work to prevent a domestic in Boston.  e solution manages p-Cresol accumulation stemming outbreak of pneumonia as seen in China, as well as in an increasing number from CKD with a two-pronged approach utilizing NCKU- of cases reported in Japan, South Korea and  ailand. On Jan. 15, the disease developed CreSolve and CreSense.  e former consists of a type was designated a Category 5 communicable health threat on par with Ebola of engineered probiotic, while the latter is a quantifi cation device and Middle East respiratory syndrome by the CDC.  is requires medical measuring p-Cresol levels in plasma via blood separation and institutions to notify the MOHW of suspected cases within 24 hours of initial treatment. Numerous precautionary living bacteria bio-sensing techniques.  ose with CKD record measures are in place to protect the people, the CDC said.  ese include better planning and infection controls at increasing levels of p-Cresol as the condition progresses.  is leads to a variety of complications and life-threatening medical institutions, conducting relevant drills, enhancing public awareness and tightening inspections at airports and health issues such as cardiovascular disease. According to NCKU, the 24-member student-faculty team beat out 200- other ports of arrival. With the Lunar New Year holiday fast approaching, the CDC urges those planning to travel to plus rivals from leading international tertiary institutions to claim the prestigious undergraduate division honor. It also Wuhan or nearby areas to avoid direct contact with wild animals and individuals exhibiting fl u symptoms, refrain from fi nished on top in the categories of hardware, measurement, model, presentation and therapeutics. Staged Oct. 31 to visiting crowded public places or livestock markets, frequently wash hands with soap and wear a surgical mask. Anyone Nov. 4, 2019, at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston, the 15th edition of iGEM involved 353 teams from who experiences symptoms of respiratory infection within 14 days of returning to Taiwan should wear a surgical mask, 44 countries and territories.  e competition is considered a global showcase for advances in the fi elds of electrical seek immediate medical treatment and inform health care personnel of recent travel history, the CDC said. engineering, energy, information engineering, medicine and physics.

ITRI cancer treatment technology wins bronze Public satisfaction in Taiwan’s NHI system hits VP Chen vows to deepen Taiwan’s Asia-Pacifi c President Tsai pledges to boost Taiwan’s at Edison Awards record high medical ties contribution to global health care

State-backed Industrial Technology Research Institute Public satisfaction Taiwan is a vital member of the global public health President Tsai Ing-wen 蔡英文 (ITRI) won bronze in the cellular research medical/dental with Taiwan’s National community and is working to expand medical collaboration ( ) said Nov. 8, category at the U.S.-based Edison Awards March 18 for Health Insurance and information sharing with countries throughout the 2019, that Taiwan will 陳建仁 developing an innovative cancer treatment, spotlighting (NHI) system hit a Asia-Pacifi c, Vice President Chen Chien-jen ( ) said boost contributions to Taiwan’s R&D prowess. ITRI’s iKNOBEADS, short for record high of 89.7 Oct. 20, 2019. Chen made the remarks at the opening global health care via biomimetic knobby magnetic beads, are microparticles percent in 2019, up ceremony of the 2019 Global Health Forum in Taiwan. expanded cooperation with tailorable sizes and shapes that can strengthen from 86.5 percent in Organized by the Ministries of Health and Welfare and and exchanges with and activate T cells to fi ght cancer more eff ectively.  e 2018, according to the Foreign Aff airs, the two-day event involved 1,500 experts world-class organizations such as American Medical morphologies can create NHI Administration and offi cials from 33 countries and territories discussing Association (AMA). Epidemic prevention, medical a larger surface area to under the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Ease of access key issues such as aging societies, chronic disease, data care and public health transcend national boundaries, improve interactions to treatment topped the survey at 41.6 percent, followed analysis, urban environments and public health. According as health is a basic human right and universal value, with key regulators of by inexpensive medical care, 41.5 percent; and reasonably to Chen, Taiwan is expected to become a super-aged Tsai said. Taiwan and its physicians have earned global infl ammation in the priced insurance premium, 19.9 percent.  e needs- society, with 20 percent of the population aged 65 years or recognition in this regard when dealing with major human immune system. based approach, which encourages users with minor older by 2026.  is is why the government is leaving no events like severe acute respiratory syndrome, H1N1 ITRI has now won ailments to seek treatment at small clinics so as to reduce stone unturned in promoting the Long-term Care Plan and dengue fever, she added. Tsai made the remarks Edison Awards for pressure on Taiwan’s major hospitals, recorded 70 percent 2.0, he said.  e 10-year initiative is a community-based while receiving AMA President Dr. Patrice Harris at four consecutive years, approval. Of those in disagreement, nearly 70 percent services network integrating medical and preventative the Presidential Offi ce in Taipei City. According to claiming prizes for an cited perceived superior treatment at major hospitals health care resources. Taiwan has also made headway in Tsai, Chicago-headquartered AMA is one of the most ultrafast rechargeable aluminum battery, a device for as the main reason. Nearly half felt the approach was bringing local laws and regulations for pharmaceuticals important and infl uential international professional boosting visibility during fi res and the iRoadSafe traffi c potentially problematic as they could not discern the and medical devices more in line with international associations for physicians. Taiwan has hosted many accident prevention system in 2017-2019, respectively. severity of a health issue. On the service provider side of standards, Chen said, citing the country’s participation as AMA delegations in the past, Tsai said, adding that Founded in 1973, ITRI fosters innovation-driven sectors the survey, physicians and dentists indicated satisfaction an offi cial member in the recently staged biannual meeting the frequency of exchanges underscores the depth of in Taiwan, with recent research endeavors focusing levels of 33.7 percent and 36.6 percent, respectively, of International Council for Harmonization of Technical friendship between the two sides. Tsai also took the on such fi elds as health, smart cities and sustainable with dissatisfaction levels at 19.1 percent and 14.9 Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use. Chen opportunity to thank AMA for its staunch support development. It has helped incubate over 270 high- percent. Established in 1995, the NHI covers more than said the New Southbound Policy is another important of Taiwan’s bid for World Health Organization tech companies, including global integrated circuit 99 percent of Taiwan’s 23 million people and off ers a platform for Taiwan to share its medical know-how and participation and inclusion in the International Health powerhouse Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. comprehensive range of leading-edge medical services. build a seamless regional disease prevention network. A key Regulations network.  e Edison Awards, established in 1987, honor excellence  e annual survey was conducted by Taipei City-based plank in the government’s national development strategy, in new product and service design, R&D and marketing. National Yang-Ming University between July 1 and the NSP seeks to deepen Taiwan’s agricultural, business, Photo: Central News Agency, https://goodideas-studio.com, Industrial Winners of this year’s prizes were chosen from a Sept. 10, 2019, via landline, mobile and online platforms. cultural, education, tourism and trade ties with the 10 Technology Research Institute, Ministry of Foreign Aff airs, National selection of around 400 of the world’s top innovations by Respondents comprised a random sampling of 7,234 Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, six Cheng Kung University, National Health Insurance Administration and more than 3,000 leading business executives. NHI users aged 20 and above. South Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand. Presidential Offi ce

6 All stories are sourced from Taiwan Today and can be read in full at 7 https://www.taiwantoday.tw/ Global networking is also important for the sectors’ devel- Leading by Example opment. An international semi- nar is scheduled to take place in 陳時中 Taipei City in September bringing Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung ( ) discusses how Taiwan Can together nursing professionals from Help achieve the World Health Organization’s vision of Health For All. home and abroad. Co-organized by Taiwan Nurses Association and PHOTOS BY CHIN HUNG-HAO International Council of Nurses [the largest organization of its kind worldwide], the event is expected to attract about 200 attendees.

aiwan Review: Taiwan’s TR: Taiwan is gaining worldwide National Health Insurance recognition for its efforts combat- T(NHI) system has been operating ing coronavirus, performing well since March 1995. What makes to date compared with other devel- the program stand out as a suc- oped nations during the COVID- cessful example of universal health 19 pandemic. What has been the coverage? 02 secret to this success? Chen Shih-chung: NHI coverage Chen: We gained valuable insights spans both Western and traditional health care system ranked first about the roles these professions from Taiwan’s experience controlling Chinese medicine as well as dental, among 89 countries and territories. play in Taiwan’s health care system? the devastating SARS [severe acute childbirth and rehab care.  ese are Chen: These two professions abso- respiratory syndrome] outbreak in all available under the NHI with TR: The efficiency of the system lutely lie at the heart of health care 2003, which helped shape our cur- premiums scaling according to owes much to projects promoting in Taiwan, as they do in systems rent response to COVID-19. how much someone earns, which digital health. Can you cite some around the world. They play key Shortly after the outbreak, ensures fairness. examples? roles in fulfi lling the WHO’s Health Taiwan promulgated the regulations The system is continuously Chen: I must praise the NHI For All mission. Approximately governing the Central Epidemic expanding to cover new medications MediCloud System, via which 174,000 nurses and 180 midwives Command Center in 2004 to give and treatments based on evaluations patients’ medical records can be are currently practicing in Taiwan. the government power to establish of effectiveness and affordability. shared among staffers at different To level-up skills in these sectors, a dedicated workforce to address For example, a new drug for treating hospitals and clinics.  is helps pre- the MOHW has held a test for major public health emergencies.

01 hepatitis C was introduced in January vent physicians from prescribing the licensed nurses since 2006 and pro- Improvements have since been made 2017, and immune checkpoint same medications or ordering the vided extra training. Last year the in various aspects such as imple- inhibitors have been used in cancer same tests for a patient, reducing annual exam was made biannual to menting an optimized surveillance immunotherapy since April 2019. medical resource wastage. encourage more nurses to advance system, strengthened border controls  is is all possible while covering For patients, the My Health their careers. and quarantine rules, and enhanced more than 99 percent of people liv- Bank tool provides easy access to The MOHW has also invested contagious diseases screening. ing in Taiwan. In a survey conducted medical records to assist with health heavily in nursing in the community Thanks to the lessons learned by the Ministry of Health and management. People can access with the establishment of home and changes made, Taiwan is always Welfare (MOHW) last year, 89.7 medical history from the past three care nursing centers, from which vigilant and can respond to an out- 01. Pedestrians cross the road while wearing surgical masks in Taipei City. Taiwan’s success managing the COVID-19 pandemic has been partially attributed to the high percent of respondents expressed years using mobile devices. nurses can visit patients in their break promptly. As a result, despite awareness of disease prevention best practices among the public. satisfaction with the NHI, the high- own homes. By providing guidance being widely predicted to be one of 02. Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung takes a question at a daily press the countries hardest hit by the virus conference held to provide the latest news regarding the coronavirus outbreak March est approval rate in the system’s his- TR: The World Health Organi- and training sessions to interested 10 in Taipei. tory. According to the Health Care zation (WHO) has designated individuals and organizations, the due to our geographical proximity Index compiled by [online business 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and ministry is expecting 1,000 of these to China, Taiwan has so far reported 02. Photo by Michelle Lin magazine] CEOWORLD, Taiwan’s Midwife. Can you tell us more centers to open by 2025. fewer cases than Japan, South Korea,

8 9 effectiveness of these measures and drugstores.  is initiative has proven everything goes as planned, human Chen: Any response to a global lessens the burden on public health effective at a time when there is a clinical trials can start shortly. It is pandemic is incomplete without agencies. In addition, we passed global shortage of personal protec- also developing a rapid test using Taiwan. As we’re situated strategi- the Special Act for Prevention, tive equipment. SARS antibodies capable of detect- cally between East and Southeast Relief and Revitalization Measures ing the COVID-19 coronavirus. Asia, our absence in coordinated for Severe Pneumonia with Novel TR: As cases continue to rise glob- NHRI’s Institute of Biotech- international health efforts can lead ally, is Taiwan working on medical to disastrous consequences. Pathogens [on Feb. 25] which stipu- nology and Pharmaceutical breakthroughs that could help ease We know from our SARS expe- lates that those who fail to meet the Research has also conducted tri- the situation? als synthesizing up to one gram of rience that global cooperation is obligation of mandatory quarantine indispensable in the fight against will be fined, while those who fully Chen:  e National Health Research remdesivir, an experimental antiviral Institutes (NHRI) launched various with potential to treat COVID-19. a contagious disease. Therefore, comply with the requirements will be as a responsible member of the entitled to monetary compensation. projects for combating coronavirus  is paves the way for mass produc- shortly after the disease was discov- tion in case of a major outbreak. global community, Taiwan has ered at the end of last year. As the In addition, the institute is using observed the International Health TR: How is technology being uti- Regulations since the beginning lized in the fi ght against the disease? only organization in Taiwan quali- artifi cial intelligence to select medi- fied to produce blood serum from cines most likely to successfully of the COVID-19 outbreak, duly investigating and reporting con- 01 Chen: We track the cellphone horses injected with the virus, NHRI treat COVID-19, with a focus on locations of quarantined indi- is now preparing an equine serum for drugs that can inhibit SARS and firmed cases to the WHO. We viduals to ensure they remain at have also kept China, Japan, South the U.S. and many European coun- testing on patients with COVID- are already on the market. home. We have also combined the 19 who are in a critical condition at Korea, Singapore and the EU up to tries. So, I think Taiwan deserves the date on the situation in Taiwan, as databases of the National Health its National Institute of Infectious TR: Does this pandemic high- recognition we have received from well as uploading information on Insurance Administration, National Diseases and Vaccinology (NIIDV). light the importance of Taiwan the international community. viral sequences to the database of Immigration Agency and Taiwan Regarding inoculation, NIIDV participating in the World Health the Global Initiative on Sharing All Centers for Disease Control to lever- is focusing on peptide vaccines but Assembly (WHA)? What contribu- TR: What measures has Taiwan Infl uenza Data. age big data analysis. For example, is also developing other types. If tions can Taiwan make? taken specifically since the world Admitting Taiwan to the WHA 02 when accessing a patient’s record fi rst learned of COVID-19? with his or her NHI card, health will allow our officials to engage Chen: As soon as 27 cases of pneu- care providers will be alerted if the in discussions with public health monia with unknown cause were patient has recently visited a high- leaders from around the world and first reported in Wuhan, China on risk area or had close contact with secure access to timely information. Dec. 31, 2019, Taiwan decided to confirmed cases of COVID-19. In It will also be an occasion where conduct onboard quarantine on all the absence of his or her NHI card, Taiwan can share our experiences in fl ights from Wuhan, the epicenter of the patient’s ID number may alter- areas such as testing, diagnosis, bor- the outbreak. This was the first key natively be used to access travel and der control and community outbreak step in successfully containing the contact histories.  is ensures health prevention. To avoid a repeat of the disease’s spread in Taiwan. We have care providers have full disclosure of current pandemic and effectively since taken measures to minimize the relevant information. ensure global health security, the risk of imported cases, such as closely In addition, to prevent panic world must take action to improve ■ tracking and tracing people traveling buying and ensure public access to communication and transparency. from high-risk areas, and constantly surgical masks, ICT professionals —interview by Oscar Chung reviewing and updating our immigra- spent two days modifying and test- tion policies as the situation evolves. ing the NHI’s databases to create Slowing community spread is a name-based mask distribution 01. A guest holds out a hand to be another one of our key strategies. system.  e program was introduced sprayed with sanitizer before entering Our public health and civil authori- on Feb. 6 and allows the public to a hotel in Taipei. 02. Doctors in Taiwan can quickly learn ties work with the police in a coordi- purchase masks at a standard price about patients’ travel and contact nated eff ort to manage people under with a weekly quota using an NHI histories by reading their National home isolation or quarantine. Such card by visiting public health centers, Health Insurance cards. 03. Passengers are monitored for signs of interagency collaboration ensures the NHI-contracted pharmacies and 03 fever at a Taipei Metro station.

10 11 Expanding Outreach

Taiwan’s medical cooperation with NSP target countries is improving lives and regional health.

BY KELLY HER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHANGHUA CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL

02

r. Pham Nhu Ngoc, a one to six months.  e hospital also cardiologist of three sends its senior surgeons to Vietnam 03 years’ standing at to conduct demonstrations, as well Ho Chi Minh City- as organizes seminars showcasing based Thu Duc District Hospital Taiwan-made medical devices and Din Vietnam, is a walking, talking pharmaceuticals. These undertak- advertisement for the success of ings are implemented under the Taiwan government eff orts to build One Country, One Center (OCOC) better tomorrows for the people of initiative launched by the Ministry New Southbound Policy (NSP) tar- of Health and Welfare (MOHW) in get countries. June 2018. Having undergone six months of specialized training at Taipei Farsighted Initiative Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) OCOC is an NSP-centric platform until March, Pham is impressed with for assessing market opportunities the facility’s equipment, services, and medical regulations, establish- personnel, and deeply entrenched ing culturally sensitive treatment

culture of commitment. “As my area environments and providing health 04 of expertise is cardiac postoperative consultation services for Taiwan care, I was excited to learn how to businesspeople. A key plank in the manage common complications like government’s national develop- bleeding and respiratory problems,” ment strategy, NSP seeks to deepen 01 she said. Taiwan’s agricultural, business, cul- According to Pham, TVGH’s tural, education, tourism and trade program goes beyond enhanc- ties with 10 Association of Southeast 01. More children are smiling in Thailand as a result of the Ministry of Health and ing clinical knowledge. “Practicing Asian Nations member states, six Welfare’s One Country, One Center initiative. 02. Representatives of Taiwan hospitals and medical fi rms take part in the country’s English is a big bonus, as is adapt- South Asian countries, Australia and 2019 expo in Hanoi, Vietnam. ing to new working conditions and New Zealand. 03. Dr. Pham Nhu Ngoc from Vietnam, right, undergoes six months of specialized cardiology training at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. procedures,” she said. “Taiwan is a Seven medical centers take part 04. Yellow-gowned doctors from Vietnam receive clinical instruction at TVGH’s beautiful country in which to learn in OCOC, with each concentrating Department of Anesthesiology. 05. Lin Chih-ching, director of TVGH International Medical Service Center, highlights the and upgrade my skill sets.” on an NSP target country: Chang countries his hospital has established cooperative ties with over the past 11 years. To date, more than 40 Viet- Gung Memorial Hospital in New namese doctors have participated in Taipei City, Malaysia; Changhua 03 & 05. Photos by Chen Mei-ling the TVGH program for periods of Christian Hospital (CCH) in the 05

12 13 OCOC Kaohsiung, Taichung, Taipei Veterans General Hospitals and National Yang- Vietnam Ming University

Changhua National Christian Thailand Indonesia Taiwan Hospital University Hospital

Shin Kong National Wu Ho-Su Myanmar India Cheng Kung Memorial University Hospital Hospital

Chang Gung The Malaysia Hualien Tzu-Chi Hospital Memorial Hospital Philippines

02

01

01. Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung 02. Taiwan medical centers responsible for New Southbound Policy target countries participating in OCOC. 03 04 05 06 03. A nurse from Thailand, center, visits a dialysis facility at Changhua Christian Hospital in the central Taiwan county. central Taiwan county, Thailand; Trainees are more than just control and treatment of dengue particularly fruitful staging ground, 04. Nina Kao, center, chief Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital in eastern an investment in the here and fever and tuberculosis, respectively. with TVGH pediatric surgeons executive offi cer of CCH’s Overseas Medical Mission Taiwan, the Philippines; National now, Chen said. “They’re expected “Taiwan’s track record in tackling earning praise for assisting in liver Center, introduces her hospital’s Cheng Kung University Hospital in to double as seed teachers upon serious public health issues is inter- transplants at Vietnam National facilities and services to visitors at Taiwan Smart Healthcare southern Taiwan’s Tainan City, India; returning home, helping amplify nationally recognized and respected,” Children’s Hospital in Hanoi. In Pavilion in Bangkok. National Taiwan University Hospital the effect of OCOC and opening Chen said. “We’re willing and able addition, TVGH works with 19 05. A medical robot takes center in Taipei, Indonesia; Shin Kong Wu the door for tie-ups with Taiwan’s to share our expertise for the benefi t institutions such as Hanoi-based stage during a Taiwan-Thailand smart health care event in Ho-Su Memorial Hospital in Taipei, medical industry firms throughout of all.” Friendship Hospital, Hanoi Medical 林志慶 Bangkok. Myanmar; and TVGH in partner- the NSP region.” Lin Chih-ching ( ), direc- University and Thu Duc District 06. Children are the main benefi ciaries of CCH free clinics ship with veterans general hospitals From January 2018 to July 2019, tor of TVGH International Medical in Thailand. in central Taiwan’s Taichung City, the medical centers trained 484 Service Center, is on the same 07. Young Thai nationals brush up on CCH-instructed oral hygiene southern Taiwan’s Kaohsiung City medical professionals and assisted page as Chen. Taiwan is a leader in techniques. as well as National Yang-Ming 98 Taiwan drug and medical device many key fi elds, and stands ready to University in Taipei, Vietnam. companies secure orders worth over further contribute to raising inter- 01. Photo by Chen Mei-ling US$2.2 million.  ey also signed 78 national health standards, he said. Deepening Connections memorandums of understanding on “OCOC offers us the chance to MOHW Minister Chen Shih-chung cooperation with partner hospitals, engage in medical diplomacy while 陳時中 ( ) views OCOC as an eff ective according to the MOHW. giving our staff ers additional front- way of sharing Taiwan’s health care Facilitating the creation of a line experience.” experiences and know-how. “Another regional network for managing goal is to connect people, markets communicable diseases is another Progressive Partnerships and supply chains while cultivating objective of OCOC. In 2018, The center has implemented coop- talent and increasing mutual under- Taiwan established partnerships erative projects with six countries in

standing and trust,” he said. with Indonesia and Vietnam in the its 11-year existence. Vietnam is a 07

14 15 that CCH’s participation in the medical missions, conducted capacity administrators, doctors, nurses, initiative is a win-win for the region building and facility upgrade proj- pharmacists and technicians, and Taiwan. “In fact, our presence ects, and performed patient referrals received clinical instruction in using in Thailand is also sparking interest and transfers in Palau—one of the the latest equipment and carrying in Vietnam for digital-related prod- country’s Pacific allies—since 2007. out treatment last year at the hospi- ucts and services like diagnostic sets, These endeavors saw the institution tal. According to Hung, this engage- management systems and robotics.” awarded a Friend of Foreign Service ment is important as it strengthens  is fact is not lost on Alex Hung Medal for advancing Taiwan’s medi- connections between front-line 洪子仁 01. A BriteMED Technology Inc. ( ), administrative deputy super- cal diplomacy by the Ministry of personnel in both countries, as well staff er details her company’s intendent at Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Foreign Aff airs in 2018. as better positions Taiwan to attract health care solutions to medical 01 professionals from Myanmar in Memorial Hospital. “We started “What we want is to replicate some of the 120,000 to 150,000 New Taipei City. cooperating with Myanmar Academy our cooperative model with Palau people of Myanmar traveling abroad 02. Lectures staged by Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital Hospital through wide-ranging data analytics and cloud computing of Family Physicians in training in Myanmar and take it to the next for heath checkups and other ser- are raising health awareness cooperative agreements. methods through their paces before personnel and recruiting doctors in level,” Hung said. “Even more can vices per annum. among Taiwan businesspeople based in Myanmar. Digitization is another area in marketplace release. 2015,” he said. “The sky really is the be accomplished as we share exper- “Taiwan enjoys a reputation for 03. Health care workers from which Taiwan Can Help NSP target limit with what can be achieved in tise in specifi c fi elds such as cancer, high-quality services at a reasonable Myanmar, left and second left, countries via the OCOC initiative. Broad Cooperation one of the region’s sleeping giants.” cardiovascular disease, health man- cost,” Hung said. “This advantage, receive on-the-job training at 高小玲 Shin Kong. CCH has thrown its weight behind Nina Kao ( ), chief executive The hospital is uniquely quali- agement, ophthalmology and pre- along with the government’s easing 04. Alex Hung, seated, fi fth the eHealth Strategy developed officer of CCH’s Overseas Medical fied to fly the flag for Taiwan in ventive medicine.” of visa requirements for nationals left, administrative deputy superintendent at Shin Kong, by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Mission Center, said a core mission Myanmar due to its previous inter- Thirty medical profession- from the region, puts the country is joined by hospital executives Health. The 2017-2026 plan seeks involves building a bridge between national expenience. It has sent als from Myanmar, including in the driver’s seat.” According to and Myanmar medical personnel at the opening of a to harness the power of digital tech- Taiwan’s smart health care industry the MOHW, 157,000 patients from training program. nology to create a more effective and medical institutions in  ailand. NSP target countries visited Taiwan 05. Advanced equipment is medical system. This encompasses organizing and for treatment in 2018, up 52 percent helping Shin Kong fl y the fl ag abroad for Taiwan’s high-quality With 10 branches boasting participating in corporate visits, from the year before. health care. more than 8,000 employees, CCH industry forums, matchmaking OCOC is seen by Minister Chen is a proven health care performer. events and trade shows. In addition, as Taiwan’s ticket for internationaliz- 01 – 05. Courtesy of Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital In 2017, it built Taiwan’s fi rst green CCH holds training courses and ing local health care services. “Public and smart hospital in the western study tours for Thai hospital execu- and private resources are invested in county of Yunlin—a facility utiliz- tives in Taiwan, as well as health ensuring the success of the initiative,” ing cutting-edge information and examinations, lectures and remote he said. “This is a serious commit- communication technology (ICT) treatment for the country’s business- ment that helps people lead healthier and cost-conscious rollout measures. people in  ailand. lives and powerfully projects the ■ The institution delivers top-notch “OCOC is definitely a move in country’s soft power.” medical services while serving as a the right direction given the emer- test bed for local businesses to put gence of Southeast Asia as a poten- 04 artificial intelligence solutions, big tial-laden market,” Ko said, adding

02 03

16 05 17 aiwan hospitals are increasingly adopting New Lease advanced surgical proce- dures that can enhance on Life quality of life for patients with seri- Tous conditions. The upgraded techniques and equipment are drawing plenty of Treatment at a hospital in Taiwan made all the interest from abroad, with Taiwan diff erence for  eodore D. Nelson. becoming a go-to location for foreign nationals seeking top-quality care. BY MEG CHANG Providing evidence of how Taiwan Can Help realize Health PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHINA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL For All is the story of Theodore D. 03 04 Nelson, who received treatment at China Medical University Hospital (CMUH) in the central city of loved the outdoors, fi shing, free div- Center, the hospital quickly con- medical team lay at the heart of the Taichung. Previously an assistant ing, hiking and hunting.”  e injury tacted Nelson’s insurance provider to happy outcome. professor at University of Guam in changed everything, as his back iron out the details. “We’ve been in Surgery can be a taxing experi- the south Pacific territory, Nelson steadily deteriorated over nine years the Guam market since 2016, so it ence both physically and mentally. It hurt his back while teaching a bas- until it aff ected his hips and knees. was no trouble making all the neces- was therefore crucial to keep Nelson ketball youth development program. In addition to limiting his mobil- sary arrangements,” she said. fully abreast of developments at 陳賢德 The injury came as a shock to ity, the constant pain left Nelson Dr. Chen Hsien-te ( ) , every stage of treatment, Dr. Chen Nelson’s family and friends, who tossing and turning at night. “I might director of the CMUH Spine said, adding that CMUH makes a knew him as a man capable of lifting sleep well for 20 or 30 minutes, but Center, said Nelson arrived at the special eff ort to instill positive energy fifty-gallon drums of water. “Before I’d always wake up in pain.” After hospital in a wheelchair looking in its patients to help them through the accident I was really active. I several rounds of surgery, including pained and dispirited. “He originally the diffi cult times. procedures in Hawaii, Nelson was came for spinal surgery, but after  is approach clearly paid off for still unable to walk without crutches. extensive examination we strongly Nelson. During a press conference “I couldn’t do 90 percent of the recommended hip replacements fi rst, organized by CMUH at the Hyatt things I wanted to do,” he said. “It as his joints were severely deformed.” Regency Guam in late 2019, the got really scary because I was hunch- In accordance with the treatment Guamanian described his experi- ing over and unable to straighten plan proposed by Dr. Chen, Nelson ence as a blessing. “I can fi nally sleep my back.” underwent two hip surgeries in May after nine years. I feel so much bet- Nelson gained a new lease on 2019. “He knew the procedures ter now.” life in late 2018 when he learned had been successful because he was Stephanie, Nelson’s wife, also of potential treatment options at mostly pain free and could walk with thinks the treatment has been a game 吳宏 CMUH from Fong S. Wu ( a mobility aid just two days after,” changer. “Honestly I’m just grateful I 聲 01 ), a committee advisor to Taiwan’s Dr. Chen said. Nelson returned don’t have to listen to him moaning Overseas Chinese Affairs Council home for three months of recupera- and groaning,” she said with a smile. who has lived in Guam for many tion before going back to the hospi- “Now his quality of life is much bet- years. At first Nelson was hesitant, tal for a spine operation in August ter, and he can enjoy his retirement.” unsure whether the treatment would the same year. Rehabilitation is going well for 01. Theodore D. Nelson, right, and his family discuss the treatment plan with be covered by his insurance plan, While the success of Nelson’s Nelson back in Guam, and while he Dr. Chen Hsien-te during his fi rst visit to China Medical University Hospital in central Taiwan’s Taichung City in April 2019. but CMUH was quick to address surgeries owes much to the expertise still walks with a cane, he can fish 02. Dr. Chen, right, uses an advanced O-arm imaging system during Nelson’s spinal his concerns. of CMUH staff ers and state-of-the- with his friends again. “If I need 周 surgery at CMUH. According to Aichi Chou ( art equipment like the O-arm surgi- any more treatment, I’m definitely 03. Nelson, fl anked by his family and CMUH medical staff ers, celebrates his 艾齊 successful hip replacement surgeries. ), chief executive officer of cal imaging system, Dr. Chen said going back to Taiwan. I won’t go ■ 04. Nelson, center, enjoys fi shing with his friends in Guam. 02 CMUH’s International Medical the trust built between patient and anywhere else.”

18 19 Borderless Care

Taiwan honors the World Health Organization’s promise to Leave No One Behind.

or nearly six decades, Taiwan has been providing public health assistance to its allies and like-minded partners through coopera- tion projects, donations and medical missions. Initially organized by state-backed International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF), this relief is now also administered by many of the country’s hospitalsF and nongovernmental organizations (NGO). New Taipei City-based Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps is one such exam- ple, organizing missions sending health care professionals to communities in 48 countries and territories since its establishment in 1995. Another is Changhua Christian Hospital (CCH), headquartered in the central Taiwan county, which has sent 90 missions to 18 countries and territories since its fi rst overseas project in 2004. Currently, CCH is working with the  ailand government on a 10-year project using the latest information and communication technology to upgrade the country’s medical systems. Many hospitals in Taiwan also welcome patients from abroad in need of expert medical procedures. In April 2019, after seven months of surgical treat- ment at China Medical University Hospital in central Taiwan’s Taichung City, an 11-year-old girl from Myanmar with Goldenhar syndrome happily returned home with her eyesight restored and ear reconstructed. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan will con- ■ tinue to help those in need. After all, health care is beyond borders and politics.

—by Jim Hwang 02

01 – 03. Taiwan is donating much-needed medical supplies to its allies and like- minded partners around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic.

01 – 03. Photos by Chen Mei-ling

01 03

20 21 01. MacKay Memorial Hospital, Kiribati, 2019 02. Tzu Chi Hospital, Mozambique, 2019 03. MacKay Memorial Hospital, Myanmar, 2018

01 & 03. Courtesy of MacKay Memorial Hospital 02. Courtesy of Wang Zhong-yi, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation

01

02 03

22 23 01 02

04

05 06

01. MacKay Memorial Hospital, Cambodia, 2017 02 & 05. Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps, Philippines, 2019 03. Tzu Chi Hospital, Mozambique, 2019 04. A physician from Vietnam, right, observes an operation at Changhua Christian Hospital in the central Taiwan county, 2019. 06. A therapist from India, left, practices burn care at Taipei City’s Sunshine Social Welfare Foundation, 2019.

01. Courtesy of MacKay Memorial Hospital 02 & 05. Courtesy of Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps 03. Courtesy of Tsai Kai-fan, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation 04. Courtesy of Changhua Christian Hospital 03 06. Courtesy of Sunshine Social Welfare Foundation

24 25 01. Chi Mei Medical Service, Vietnam, 2019 02. A girl from Myanmar is treated for Goldenhar syndrome at China Medical University Hospital in central Taiwan’s Taichung City, 2019. 03. CCH, India, 2019 04. International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF), Nicaragua, 2019 05. CCH, Vietnam, 2014 06. MacKay Memorial Hospital, Kiribati, 2019 07. Tzu Chi Hospital, Mozambique, 2019

01. Courtesy of Chi Mei Medical Center 02. Courtesy of China Medical University Hospital 03 & 05. Courtesy of CCH 04. Courtesy of Chang Shu-hui 06. Courtesy of MacKay Memorial Hospital 07. Courtesy of Wang Zhong-yi, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation

01 02

03 04 06

05 07

26 27