Is Hepatitis B Treatment with ETV Covered by Insurance in Taiwan?

Hepatitis B

Is the medication ETV (Entecavir) for the treatment of hepatitis B covered by health insurance? Is it effective? I heard online that health insurance coverage was opened in August this year.
Does Hsinchu Hospital have this medication?

Xiao Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/09/28

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, the treatment medications for hepatitis B are divided into two main categories.
One category is interferons, which have antiviral, anti-proliferative, and immunomodulatory effects.
The other category consists of oral nucleos(t)ide analogs; currently, there are four types available in Taiwan: Entecavir, Tenofovir, Lamivudine, and Adefovir.
These medications can effectively suppress the virus and require long-term use, with treatment duration being variable.
It is important to monitor for drug resistance issues.
The National Health Insurance provides conditional coverage, which requires evaluation by a physician.
Tenofovir was included in the National Health Insurance coverage starting in August.
Our hospital currently does not have this medication.
I recommend contacting Hsinchu Hospital to inquire if they have it available.
Wishing you good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2008/09/28

More Info

In Taiwan, the treatment of Hepatitis B with antiviral medications such as Entecavir (ETV), known as "喜多福" (Xiduofu), is indeed covered by the National Health Insurance (NHI) under specific conditions. The coverage is generally provided for patients who meet certain clinical criteria, including elevated liver enzymes (GOT and GPT) and detectable levels of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA.
As of August this year, there have been updates to the NHI regulations that allow for broader access to antiviral treatments for Hepatitis B. This means that if you have been diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis B and your liver function tests indicate active liver inflammation or damage, you may qualify for coverage of ETV. The effectiveness of ETV in treating Hepatitis B is well-documented; it works by inhibiting the replication of the virus, thereby reducing viral load and helping to restore liver function. Many patients experience significant improvements in their liver enzyme levels and overall health after starting treatment with ETV.

Regarding the availability of ETV at Hsinchu Hospital or any other medical facility in Taiwan, it is advisable to check directly with the hospital or your healthcare provider. Most hospitals that specialize in liver diseases or have a gastroenterology department should have access to ETV, especially since it is a commonly prescribed medication for Hepatitis B.

If you are considering starting treatment with ETV, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your specific situation, including your liver function tests and viral load, to determine if you meet the criteria for NHI coverage. Additionally, they can provide guidance on the potential side effects of the medication and what to expect during treatment.

In summary, ETV is covered by Taiwan's National Health Insurance for eligible patients, and it is an effective treatment option for managing chronic Hepatitis B. Ensure you consult with your healthcare provider to confirm your eligibility and discuss the best treatment plan for your condition. Regular monitoring of liver function and viral load will be necessary throughout your treatment to assess effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.

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