President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) affirmed the National Health Insurance Administration's (NHIA) stroke patient rehabilitation ward pilot program, stating that it is a crucial step towards a Healthy Taiwan. Speaking at a Friday, August 14 press conference, Lai underscored that the government will provide financial support to extend the lives of Taiwanese citizens, reduce disability, and achieve the goal of a healthier nation and a stronger country.

The NHIA launched the program at 10 medical institutions across Taiwan in July, providing up to 180 days of integrated care for stroke patients with recovery potential. This includes multiple hours of intensive rehabilitation per day and daily-living training activities to help patients reduce their degree of disability and return home more smoothly.

With Taiwan entering a super-aged society, the disabled population is expected to soon exceed 900,000. The president stated that, while the average life expectancy of Taiwanese people has increased with medical advancements, the number of unhealthy years remains at 8.4, approximately 10% of their average lifespan. He said that as Taiwan's first president with a medical background, his mission is to improve the health of all Taiwanese citizens, which includes goals to extend life and reduce disability.

President Lai mentioned the government's target to reduce the cancer mortality rate by one-third by 2030 and its work on the prevention of the "three highs" — hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. He pointed out that the Healthy Taiwan initiative aims to promote sustainable health insurance, improve the medical environment, promote smart healthcare, and implement social responsibility and sustainable healthcare. Lai emphasized that he hopes the government, the medical community, and the private sector will work together to benefit the public and achieve the vision of a Healthy Taiwan.