Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Centre (CECC) has relaxed entry rules for foreigners traveling to Taiwan for medical care and will open up to medical tourists from August. This has drawn criticism from medical professionals.
Taiwan’s health ministry will evaluate applicants on a case-by-case basis, looking at factors such as urgency, treatment continuity, and relevant risks.
This opportunity does not apply to those interested in health check-ups, cosmetic surgery, or other non-urgent medical services.
Patients may also apply to have two family members and one medical professional accompany them.
Doctors have questioned the possibility of implementing a sound system regarding the safety risks of countries from which citizens will be allowed entry. Despite strict requirements for such visitors, doctors argue that the move will definitely increase the chances of hospital-acquired infections, which is a risk that need not be taken when the coronavirus continues to spread worldwide.
New CECC rules for medical tourists include that they must provide:
Proof of travel health insurance.
A health report including a negative COVID-19 PCR test result.
A treatment plan.
An affidavit for mandatory quarantine.
All this is required before they can apply for permits from the health and immigration authorities.
Most medical tourists to Taiwan are from China and Japan.
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