Focus Taiwan
Date: 2017/01/05
By: Chang Min-hsuen and Ko Lin

Taipei, Jan. 5 (CNA) The Ministry of Health and Welfare said Thursday that it has come to a consensus with eight medical associations to discourage hospitals across Taiwan from raising registration fees for patients and reducing outpatient services.

The consensus was reached during a meeting Thursday between the health ministry and medical associations, including the Taipei Pharmacists Association and Taiwan Medical Center Association, to discuss the possible impact of the newly implemented rules on vacation days and the introduction of a standard two days off per week for Taiwanese workers.

Shih Chung-liang (石崇良), head of the ministry’s department of medical affairs, told reporters that the representatives attending the meeting all showed their support for the new work rules.

They said that despite the possible rise in operating costs, they will continue to improve working conditions for their medical staff while maintaining quality healthcare, according to Shih.    [FULL  STORY]