Taiwan allocates NT$1.6 billion to bolster Lunar New Year holiday medical services

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare said it expects medical services to remain available during the upcoming nine-day Lunar New Year holiday, despite historically higher emergency room demand.

Emergency department visits during the holiday period are typically 1.5 to 1.7 times higher than on regular days. Last year, overcrowding in emergency rooms prompted complaints from both patients and medical staff.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) said over 70% of hospitals are expected to keep outpatient services open during the holiday. In some regions, more than 10% of clinics are projected to remain open, up from 2–4% in previous years.

National Health Insurance Administration Director-General Chen Lian-yu (陳亮妤) said the gains may appear modest but represent a substantial increase in available services. Each additional 1% translates into about 120 more clinics providing services.

The ministry outlined four key measures, including early preparation, patient triage, expanded medical capacity, and strengthened regional coordination. It allocated NT$1.6 billion to encourage hospitals and pharmacies to remain open from Feb. 14 to 22.

Under an incentive program, medical institutions can receive bonuses for operating clinics, admitting patients, and handling emergency cases. Additional compensation will be provided for outpatient antibiotic services and designated infectious disease clinics.

Shih said overall medical service capacity during the holiday is expected to improve from last year. Addressing concerns that a potential influenza outbreak could strain resources, he said flu-like illnesses currently account for less than 11% of emergency department visits.

While this remains below the epidemic threshold, he said influenza activity has not yet peaked and the ministry will continue monitoring developments.

To further ease pressure on emergency departments, designated emergency hospitals will operate special outpatient clinics from Feb. 17 to 19. In addition, six major cities will open 13 minor emergency centers to handle noncritical cases.