The healthcare system in Taitung offers both public and private options for residents and foreigners alike. The quality of care is generally high, with public hospitals being well-equipped and staffed by skilled professionals.
Taiwan’s Healthcare System
Taiwan’s public healthcare system, known as the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, provides comprehensive coverage for citizens and residents, including foreigners with a valid Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). Public hospitals in Taitung, such as Taitung Hospital, are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. The experience at a public hospital in Taitung is similar to that in other parts of Taiwan, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Taiwan as long as they have an ARC. However, some expats may prefer to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals in Taitung, such as Taitung Christian Hospital, are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. The experience at a private hospital in Taitung is generally more personalized and comfortable compared to public hospitals.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Taitung
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Taitung include:
- Taitung Hospital (public) – located in the city center
- Taitung Christian Hospital (private) – located in the city center
- Chenggong Hospital (public) – located in Chenggong Township, about 1 hour by car from Taitung
Emergency Services in Taitung
There are ambulance services in Taitung, which can be called by dialing 119. Ambulance response times may vary depending on the location and traffic conditions, but they generally arrive promptly in emergency situations.
Health Insurance Companies in Taitung
Popular private health insurance companies in Taitung include Cathay Life Insurance, Fubon Life Insurance, and Nan Shan Life Insurance. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads in Taitung may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their needs and preferences.
Insider Tips from Expats in Taitung: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Taitung for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might even find that you can save some money while living here. Taitung is a beautiful city with a lower cost of living compared to other cities in Taiwan, like Taipei or Kaohsiung.As for sacrifices, you might have to make a few adjustments in terms of your lifestyle. For example, you might not find as many international restaurants or high-end shopping malls as you would in a larger city. However, Taitung has a lot of local markets and eateries that offer delicious and affordable food. Plus, the city is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities.When it comes to finding a place to live, there are a few neighborhoods that I would recommend. The downtown area, near Taitung Railway Station, is a convenient location with easy access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. You can find a decent apartment here for around $300 to $500 a month. Another option is the Tiehua Village area, which is a bit more upscale and has a lively arts and music scene. Rent in this area might be slightly higher, around $500 to $700 a month, but it’s still quite affordable.On the other hand, there are some neighborhoods that might be too expensive for your budget. For example, the Dulan area is popular among expats and has a more laid-back, beachy vibe. However, rent prices here can be quite high, sometimes reaching over $1,000 a month for a nice apartment or house. If you’re looking to save money, I would avoid this area.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in Taitung on a $5,000 a month budget is not only doable but also quite comfortable. You might have to make a few sacrifices in terms of luxury, but the lower cost of living and beautiful surroundings more than make up for it,” commented an expat living in Taitung.
