Taiwan has become Asia’s leader in palliative care, according to the World Map of Palliative Care. Furthermore, this recognition highlights the nation’s efforts to improve end-of-life planning, hospice care, and patient autonomy. Consequently, palliative care initiatives now cover millions, showing growing public support for a dignified death.
The report, released earlier this month by ATLANTES Global Observatory of Palliative Care at the University of Navarra in Spain, analyzed 201 countries. Globally, Germany ranked first, the Netherlands second, and Taiwan third.
As of October 12, over 1.09 million people in Taiwan had signed an advance decision. In addition, more than 670,000 had registered as organ donors, Ministry of Health and Welfare data showed. Moreover, in 2024 alone, 64,396 people added hospice care annotations to their National Health Insurance records. Additionally, 32,975 registered as organ donors, and 25,149 selected advanced decision annotations.
The largest age group engaging in hospice care decisions were citizens aged 60 to 69, accounting for 24 percent. Meanwhile, the 50 to 59 age group accounted for 18 percent. Advance decision participation followed a similar pattern, with 27 percent aged 60 to 69.
Department of Medical Affairs Director-General Liu Yueh-ping said these numbers show growing awareness of patient autonomy and the importance of a dignified death. She added that palliative care and advance planning help people maintain dignity and quality of life.
Since the Hospice Palliative Care Act took effect over 25 years ago, public support has gradually increased. In addition, related laws, including the Human Organ Transplantation and Patient Right to Autonomy acts, have strengthened awareness. Officials encourage citizens to use their National Health Insurance card and Citizen Digital Certificate to register hospice care, organ donation, and advance decision preferences online.
Innovative programs include therapy animals in hospice units at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, National Taiwan University Hospital’s Yunlin branch, and Mackay Memorial Hospital. These programs provide comfort and emotional support for patients and families.
The Taiwan Organ Sharing Registry and Patient Autonomy Promotion Center hosted a charity run at Taipei’s Daan Forest Park, attracting over 1,000 participants. Moreover, authorities stress that Taiwan’s aging population makes holistic palliative care increasingly vital.
Looking ahead, Taiwan plans to expand palliative care education, advance decision awareness, and organ donation initiatives. Overall, these efforts aim to ensure compassionate and dignified end-of-life care for all citizens.
