Towards integrated care in Taiwan: local issues, international challenges

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the extent to which Taiwan's current policy agenda is moving towards an improved system of integrated health and social services. The paper informs debates about integrated care internationally.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study draws on existing literature and policy documents to analyse the progress of integrated care in Taiwan, with wider implications identified internationally.

Findings

For many years Taiwan's health care and social services were separated, however, there is growing momentum for integrated care in politics, policy and practice. There are, however, a number of critical issues that need to be addressed if Taiwan is to realise its ambitions for a truly integrated system.

Research limitations/implications

This is a small case study and overview, with the limited aim of exploring Taiwan's progress in an international context.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to an emerging body of literature on integrated care in Taiwan (some only available in Chinese), which will be of interest to policy makers and planners, not only in East Asia but internationally.

Citation

Fu, T. and Hughes, R. (2012), "Towards integrated care in Taiwan: local issues, international challenges", Journal of Integrated Care, Vol. 20 No. 6, pp. 394-400. https://doi.org/10.1108/14769011211285192