Lawmakers Approve Senior Health Insurance Subsidies Amid Vote-Buying Debate

Taiwan’s opposition-controlled legislature has passed an amendment that would fully subsidize health insurance premiums for people aged 65 and older who fall within the 20% tax bracket. The measure could benefit up to four million people but is expected to cost the government more than US$1.2 billion. Critics, including healthcare reform advocates and the health ministry, warn the policy could undermine the sustainability of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance system and shift costs to younger generations. Supporters argue the central government should bear the expense to reduce disparities between local governments and ease financial pressure on seniors and their families.