Taiwan's Home Healthcare Evolves: Focus Shifts to 'Caring for People, Not Just Diseases'

Taiwan's home healthcare sector is entering a new decade with a call for a fundamental redefinition of medical values. Yu Shang-ru, founding president of the Taiwan Association of Home Care Medicine, stated that home care is more than just bringing hospital services into patients' homes; it's about recognizing the intrinsic value of care itself.

"Caring for people, not just treating diseases" is the core philosophy moving forward. Yu emphasized that future medical success should not solely be measured by patient numbers or mortality rates. Instead, the focus must shift to whether patients receive the care they truly need, whether their families are adequately supported, and whether individuals can live with dignity in familiar surroundings. This aligns with the principles of Value-based Care.

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Home care is a long but worthwhile path. It brings healthcare back to the individual, family, home, and community, and returns medicine to its original intention: caring for people, not just treating diseases.

Established 10 years ago, the Taiwan Association of Home Care Medicine has seen numerous healthcare professionals dedicate themselves to providing in-home care. Despite challenges, their efforts have laid a foundation for Taiwan's home care system. Yu highlighted that the aging population is a significant issue across Asia and globally, making robust home care models essential.

Looking ahead, the association plans to deepen community care, integrate technological innovations, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. The goal is to ensure healthcare truly reaches families and communities, enhancing overall quality of life and preserving human dignity. Yu sees this as a long-term, worthwhile endeavor that brings medicine back to its original intent: caring for the person, not just the ailment. The association also plans to host the Asia-Pacific Home Care Conference every two years to share Taiwan's experiences and contribute to global health governance, particularly in addressing the needs of aging societies.

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Future medical care cannot just pursue treating diseases or reducing mortality rates; it should focus on whether patients truly receive the care they need, whether families receive support, and whether they can live with dignity in a familiar environment.