Guide for Foreign Patients Seeking Orthopedic Surgery in Taiwan

Medical Matters for Foreign Nationals in Taiwan

I have a foreign relative who had a car accident and suffered a leg fracture.
They have undergone multiple surgeries in Indonesia but have not fully recovered.
They would like to come to Taiwan for surgery.
How much would the treatment cost, and how can they apply for it? Please provide guidance from a physician.
Thank you.

Mr. Hsu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/17

Dr. Su Yiren reply Orthopedics

Dear Dr.
Hsu,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the medical fee standards for foreign nationals.
Here is the response:
In our country, if an individual does not have National Health Insurance (NHI) coverage, medical fees are charged according to the NHI fee schedule.
Therefore, aside from a few items that have special exemptions under NHI, most costs can be found in the data published by the National Health Insurance Administration.

For example, in a case of a femoral fracture, the surgical fee is NT$11,000, plus a device fee of NT$15,000, which is discounted by 50%, resulting in NT$7,500.
General orthopedic materials range from NT$3,000 to NT$10,000.
Anesthesia fees are difficult to estimate as they depend on the duration, but they typically range from NT$4,000 to NT$5,000.
The hospitalization fee for seven days is approximately NT$7,000, and medication costs around NT$4,000.
Laboratory fees (such as X-rays, blood tests, transfusions, etc.) are about NT$3,000.

In total, the costs generally amount to at least NT$55,000 to NT$60,000.
This does not include special procedures that physicians may wish to perform, such as autologous or allogeneic bone grafts, external fixation devices, limb lengthening procedures, soft tissue grafts (commonly known as skin grafts), and second or third-generation antibiotics.

If the patient is a foreign student, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education have commissioned several insurance companies to handle bridge insurance.
I am not very familiar with the details, so please consult the relevant authorities.
Wishing you safety,
Dr.
Su, Puzih Hospital

Reply Date: 2005/03/17

More Info

If your foreign relative is considering orthopedic surgery in Taiwan after experiencing complications from a previous surgery abroad, there are several important factors to consider regarding the costs, application process, and overall care.

Cost of Orthopedic Surgery in Taiwan
The cost of orthopedic surgery in Taiwan can vary significantly based on the type of procedure, the hospital, and whether the patient has National Health Insurance (NHI) coverage. For foreign patients without NHI, the fees are typically based on the standard rates set by the National Health Insurance Administration, which can be quite reasonable compared to many Western countries.

For example, a typical surgery for a femoral fracture might include:
- Surgical Fees: Approximately NT$11,000 (around USD 370).

- Material Costs: About NT$15,000, with additional charges for orthopedic implants ranging from NT$3,000 to NT$10,000.

- Anesthesia Fees: Depending on the duration of the procedure, this could range from NT$4,000 to NT$5,000.

- Hospital Stay: A seven-day hospital stay may cost around NT$7,000.

- Medication and Tests: Additional costs for medications and diagnostic tests (like X-rays and blood tests) could be around NT$4,000 and NT$3,000, respectively.

In total, the estimated cost for a straightforward orthopedic procedure could range from NT$55,000 to NT$60,000 (approximately USD 1,800 to USD 2,000). However, this does not include any specialized procedures such as bone grafting or the use of advanced materials, which could increase the overall cost.

Application Process
1. Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation with an orthopedic specialist in Taiwan. Many hospitals offer online appointment systems, and it is advisable to provide medical records from previous treatments to facilitate the consultation.

2. Medical Evaluation: During the consultation, the physician will evaluate the condition of your relative's injury, discuss the surgical options available, and outline the expected outcomes and recovery process.

3. Preoperative Preparation: If surgery is deemed necessary, the hospital will provide instructions for preoperative care, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and other evaluations.

4. Insurance and Payment: Since your relative is a foreign patient, they will need to discuss payment options with the hospital's billing department. Some hospitals may require a deposit before surgery, while others may offer payment plans.

5. Postoperative Care: After the surgery, the hospital will provide guidelines for recovery, including follow-up appointments and rehabilitation services.

Additional Considerations
- Language Barrier: Many hospitals in Taiwan have English-speaking staff, but it may be beneficial to bring a translator or use translation services if needed.

- Travel and Accommodation: Patients should also consider travel arrangements and accommodations. Many hospitals can assist with recommendations for nearby hotels or guesthouses.

- Cultural Differences: Understanding cultural norms and practices in Taiwan can enhance the experience for foreign patients. Taiwanese healthcare providers are generally very attentive and patient-centered.

- Follow-up Care: After returning to their home country, your relative should ensure they have a plan for follow-up care, especially if they require physical therapy or ongoing monitoring of their recovery.

In conclusion, seeking orthopedic surgery in Taiwan can be a viable option for your relative, especially if previous treatments have not resolved their issues. By understanding the costs, application process, and available resources, they can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

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