Mental Health Costs and Medication Options in Taiwan

Could you please clarify what you mean by "精神費用"?

In general, for large hospitals such as Miaoli Provincial Hospital or Toufen Weigong Hospital, if you have National Health Insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses for a psychiatric consultation typically range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand New Taiwan Dollars, depending on the specific services provided.
Regarding your situation with poor emotional management leading to insomnia and difficulty controlling your emotions, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medications.
While it is sometimes possible to prescribe both sleeping pills (hypnotics) and sedatives (anxiolytics) concurrently, this should only be done under the guidance of a qualified physician to ensure safety and effectiveness.

An Di, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/30

Dr. Wang Chongren reply Psychiatry

Dear Andy,
Regarding the portion of expenses not covered by the National Health Insurance, it is important to first check if you have a catastrophic illness card.
If not, the costs may vary depending on the level of the hospital.
For example, at Miaoli Hospital, which is a regional hospital (equivalent to our hospital), the out-of-pocket expense is 240 NTD, plus a registration fee of 50-100 NTD (which varies by hospital).
Additionally, there is a co-payment for medications (if the medication cost exceeds 1000 NTD, an additional 200 NTD is required).
Therefore, for a non-catastrophic illness patient at our hospital, the total cost for a 28-day supply of medication would be approximately 520 NTD.
As for your second question regarding emotional management issues, the general principle is to combine lifestyle management (addressing the root cause) with pharmacological treatment (symptomatic relief).
It is advisable to discuss this with your physician, as some conditions may also benefit from psychotherapy to avoid excessive medication use.
Wishing you good health and all the best!
Sincerely,
Department of Psychiatry, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2008/07/30

More Info

When considering mental health care costs and medication options in Taiwan, particularly in large hospitals like Miaoli Provincial Hospital or Toufen Weigong Hospital, it's essential to understand the structure of healthcare costs under the National Health Insurance (NHI) system. If you have NHI coverage, the out-of-pocket expenses for psychiatric consultations can vary based on several factors, including whether you have a catastrophic illness card. For instance, without such a card, the co-payment for a visit to a regional hospital like Miaoli Provincial Hospital is approximately NT$240, plus a registration fee that can range from NT$50 to NT$100. Additionally, if you require medication, there may be further costs associated with the prescription, especially if the total exceeds NT$1,000, which could add another NT$200 to your expenses. Therefore, for a typical 28-day supply of medication, you might expect to pay around NT$520 in total.

Regarding your second question about managing emotional issues that lead to insomnia and difficulty in emotional regulation, it is crucial to approach this with a comprehensive strategy. The general recommendation is to combine lifestyle management (which addresses the root causes) with pharmacological treatment (which alleviates symptoms). It is advisable to discuss your specific situation with your psychiatrist, as they can provide tailored advice based on your medical history and current condition.

As for the concurrent use of sleeping pills and sedatives, this is a nuanced topic. While both types of medications can be effective for managing symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, they can also interact in ways that may not be safe. For instance, combining these medications can increase the risk of excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and other side effects. Therefore, it is vital to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. They can evaluate your specific symptoms, the severity of your insomnia, and your overall mental health status to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

In addition to medication, consider exploring non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be effective for insomnia and emotional regulation. Mindfulness practices, regular physical activity, and good sleep hygiene can also play significant roles in improving your mental health and sleep quality.

In summary, while mental health care in Taiwan is accessible and affordable under the NHI system, it is essential to engage in open communication with your healthcare providers regarding your treatment options. Balancing medication with lifestyle changes and therapeutic interventions can lead to better outcomes for managing your emotional health and sleep issues. Always prioritize safety and efficacy by consulting with your psychiatrist before making any decisions about your treatment plan.

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