Taiwan Aims to Boost Home Dialysis to 18% by 2035

Taiwan is intensifying its efforts to combat kidney disease by shifting its focus from treatment to prevention. During the opening of the Asian Pacific Congress of Nephrology, President William Lai announced a goal to increase the prevalence of home dialysis to 18 percent by 2035. This represents a significant move in the country’s healthcare strategy as it grapples with the rising incidence of kidney-related illnesses.

The congress, hosted in Taiwan for the first time in 25 years, revolves around the theme “Link the Future Kidney Health with GIVE.” President Lai, a nephrologist himself, emphasized the importance of kidney health, stating, “I know that kidney health is one of the pillars of health and happiness for our people.” The congress aims to address kidney health through various scientific perspectives, including genetics, immunology, and data analytics.

Taiwan has made notable strides in nephrology, collaborating closely with the Asian Pacific Society of Nephrology and the International Society of Nephrology. President Lai highlighted the country’s achievements in dialysis quality and integrated care for chronic kidney disease, sharing Taiwan’s experience with other nations.

The government has implemented several initiatives to promote early detection and prevention of kidney disease. Free health examinations for adults have been introduced, alongside the launch of the 888 Program. This program targets the prevention and treatment of conditions such as hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension, which are known risk factors for chronic kidney disease. The initiative aims to enroll 80 percent of those affected into a care network, ensuring they receive personalized lifestyle consultations and support for managing their health.

Moreover, in March 2023, the government approved an increase in payouts under the National Health Insurance system for sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, designed to reduce the incidence of chronic kidney disease or delay its progression. Lai reported progress in these areas, noting that the age-standardized incidence rate of dialysis has decreased from 318 per million people in 2005 to 290 per million in 2022.

In addition to these measures, the Taiwan Home Dialysis White Paper for 2026 to 2035, developed in collaboration with the Taiwan Society of Nephrology, aims to enhance the quality of life for patients by integrating medical care into their homes and communities.

Lai expressed optimism about Taiwan’s potential to contribute to broader health initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region, stating, “A healthier Taiwan can drive a healthier Asia-Pacific.” He emphasized the importance of international collaboration in research, clinical practices, and policy-making to promote kidney health.

While the incidence rate of renal disease has decreased, Shih Chung-liang, the Minister of Health and Welfare, noted that the aging population means the number of individuals requiring dialysis may not decline immediately. Taiwan currently holds the highest dialysis rate globally, with over 900,000 individuals living with chronic kidney disease and more than 90,000 receiving treatment. The annual medical expenditure on these treatments amounts to approximately NT$50 billion (USD $1.6 billion).

In response to these challenges, the government is emphasizing preventive measures, including increased screening rates and digital education initiatives aimed at empowering the public to manage their health proactively. Minister Shih affirmed that these efforts are crucial for reducing reliance on medical treatments and facilitating early interventions.

The commitment to enhancing kidney health through innovative strategies and collaboration marks an important chapter in Taiwan’s healthcare journey, reflecting a proactive approach to one of the nation’s significant health challenges.