Taipei has a public and private healthcare system that provides quality medical care to its citizens and visitors. Taiwan’s public healthcare system is called the National Health Insurance (NHI) and is used by both citizens and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Taipei for serious medical emergencies and major surgery as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. At a public hospital in Taipei, you can expect to find a wide range of medical services, from general check-ups to specialized treatments. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Taiwan. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery as they offer more personalized care and shorter wait times. Private hospitals in Taipei are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, and offer a wide range of medical services.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Taipei
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital: This public hospital is located in the Zhongzheng District and is one of the largest hospitals in Taiwan. It specializes in trauma, orthopedics, and emergency care.
- Taipei Medical University Hospital: This public hospital is located in the Zhongzheng District and is one of the largest hospitals in Taiwan. It specializes in cardiology, neurology, and oncology.
- National Taiwan University Hospital: This public hospital is located in the Da’an District and is one of the largest hospitals in Taiwan. It specializes in pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology.
- Taipei City Hospital: This public hospital is located in the Zhongzheng District and is one of the largest hospitals in Taiwan. It specializes in internal medicine, surgery, and emergency care.
- Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital: This private hospital is located in the Zhongzheng District and is one of the largest hospitals in Taiwan. It specializes in ophthalmology, dermatology, and plastic surgery.
Emergency Services in Taipei
Taipei has an ambulance service that can be called by dialing 119. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Taipei
The most popular private health insurers in Taipei are Cathay Life Insurance, Fubon Life Insurance, and Shin Kong Life Insurance. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Taipei: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Taipei for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. Of course, you might have to make some sacrifices, but overall, you can still enjoy a good quality of life.First, let’s talk about housing. If you want to save money, I’d recommend looking for an apartment in more affordable neighborhoods like Zhonghe, Yonghe, or Xinzhuang. These areas are still well-connected to the city center by MRT, but the rent is significantly cheaper than in more upscale neighborhoods like Da’an, Xinyi, or Tianmu. For example, you can find a decent 2-bedroom apartment in Zhonghe for around $600-$800 per month, while the same apartment in Da’an could easily cost you over $1,500.When it comes to transportation, the MRT and buses are quite affordable, so you won’t have to spend too much on getting around the city. A monthly MRT pass costs around $50, and you can also use it on buses. If you prefer to drive, keep in mind that parking and gas can be quite expensive in Taipei, so you might want to consider using public transportation instead.Eating out in Taipei can be very affordable if you stick to local restaurants and night markets. You can easily find delicious meals for under $5, and even if you occasionally splurge on more expensive Western or Japanese restaurants, you should still be able to stay within your budget. Groceries are also reasonably priced, especially if you shop at local markets instead of imported supermarkets.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Taipei. You can enjoy free or low-cost cultural events, visit beautiful parks and hiking trails, or join one of the many sports clubs and gyms in the city. Movie tickets and other entertainment expenses are also quite reasonable compared to Western countries.In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the luxury items and services you’re used to, like having a large apartment with a garden or a private car. You might also need to adjust your expectations when it comes to the quality of certain products and services, as they might not be up to the same standards as in your home country. However, I believe that the overall quality of life in Taipei is still very good, and you can definitely make it work on a $5,000 monthly budget,” commented an expat living in Taipei.
