Childbirth Accidents in Taiwan Reach Seven-Year Low in 2024

Childbirth accident relief cases in Taiwan have fallen to their lowest level in seven years, according to a report released by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. In 2024, the ministry reported just 260 approved cases, marking a significant decline from previous years and reflecting broader trends in the nation’s declining birthrate.

The report indicates that since the introduction of the Childbirth Accident Emergency Relief Act in 2016, there have been a total of 2,308 approved cases, with more than NT$1.45 billion (approximately US$46.2 million) disbursed in aid. This year’s figures represent the first decrease in three consecutive years, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance perinatal care and support for women and families.

As the number of births continues to decline, Liu Yueh-ping, Director-General of the Department of Medical Affairs, acknowledged that the decrease in childbirth accidents could be attributed in part to this trend. However, she emphasized that the improvements in safety during childbirth also play a crucial role. The ministry has shifted its focus from post-event compensation to proactive prevention, implementing measures such as enhanced perinatal medical networks and risk management strategies for complications like postpartum hemorrhage and embolism.

Improved Safety Measures and Ongoing Challenges

The report highlighted that amniotic fluid embolism remains the leading cause of maternal deaths, while most neonatal deaths are associated with brain abnormalities. The ministry’s data consistently shows that the main causes of maternal mortality include postpartum hemorrhage, vascular or pulmonary embolism, and amniotic fluid embolism. In response, the ministry has rolled out integrated care models and prevention programs targeting these high-risk factors.

Liu pointed out the importance of cooperation between hospitals and clinics within the perinatal medical system. In emergencies, such as cases of postpartum hemorrhage, hospitals are prepared to support nearby clinics with blood transfusions and referrals, which enhances the efficiency of emergency responses.

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Huang Jian-pei, secretary-general of the Taiwan Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology, noted that the maternal mortality rate in Taiwan was approximately 12 per 100,000 live births in 2023, significantly higher than rates in countries such as Japan and South Korea. He attributed this disparity to potential issues in patient referrals, especially as some primary care clinics face operational challenges amid declining birth rates.

Huang emphasized that timely referrals for high-risk expectant mothers are critical for effective intervention. The closure of obstetric clinics, particularly in rural areas, poses additional risks as it hampers access to necessary care. He called for the government to provide more comprehensive incentives for referrals to ensure that high-risk mothers receive adequate protection rather than relying solely on post-event remediation.

Fetal deaths account for over half of all childbirth relief cases. In many instances, conditions such as gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia exacerbate risks, particularly when interventions are delayed. Huang highlighted the importance of conceiving at an appropriate age and maintaining good health during pregnancy to mitigate overall risks.

The report underscores a successful decline in childbirth accident relief cases but also indicates that ongoing challenges persist in ensuring the safety and health of mothers and infants in Taiwan. The Ministry of Health and Welfare remains committed to enhancing perinatal care and addressing the complexities of maternal and neonatal health in the face of evolving demographic trends.