TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) gave a keynote speech at the 21st International Congress of Oriental Medicine on Sunday, congratulating the host for celebrating its 50th anniversary and honoring the contributions of traditional Chinese medicine to the health of citizens, per CNA.
Lai said TCM has been included in the central government's "Healthy Taiwan" initiative, allowing practitioners to contribute to chronic disease management and long-term care, fostering a comprehensive and integrated healthcare system. He added that many challenges exist in a post-pandemic era and an aging society, expressing hope that TCM will continue to be involved in community healthcare and the government's long-term care system.
According to Lai, the government continues to invest significant resources in TCM and has promulgated supportive measures such as the Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy Development Act, along with related practitioner education and training, and hospital and clinic evaluation. Furthermore, national health insurance covers TCM services, enabling citizens to enjoy high-quality, convenient, and affordable care.
Lai said TCM is now deeply integrated into daily life and has made valuable contributions to society, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. Taiwan developed the Chingguan Yihau (清冠一號) herbal formula, which not only aided citizens but also used in over 60 countries.
He said he personally witnessed the effectiveness of this medicine in combating COVID-19, a tangible demonstration of the progress and innovation of traditional medicine in Taiwan. Lai expressed his hope to see more cooperation between TCM and Western medicine to make more contributions to global health and foster more international exchange.
