Immunotherapy Policy Change in Taiwan
June is Immunotherapy Month, and an opportunity to recognize the work of our partners, Taiwan Young Patient Association (TYPA). TYPA is dedicated to creating a "comprehensive support and care system for young patients." Their work aims to address the gaps in the existing medical and social welfare systems and improve the healthcare environment for young patients. They also aim to enhance awareness among professionals and the general public about the health needs of young people, provide support for young patients throughout their patient journey, and participate in discussions on medical policies. The ultimate goal is to improve the healthcare challenges faced by the younger population and build a healthier Taiwan for the young generation. Due in part to TYPA's policy advocacy on behalf of young cancer patients, Taiwan has recently expanded its National Health Insurance to include immunotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer, as well as non-small cell lung cancer and triple-negative breast cancer.
Eric Liu, Secretary General of TYPA, told GCCA, “The Taiwan Young Patient Association warmly welcomes the government’s latest step toward equitable cancer care with the official launch of the NT$10 billion Cancer Drug Fund in 2025. This initiative fulfills a key promise made by President Lai Ching-te, whose “Healthy Taiwan” vision aims to reduce national cancer mortality by one-third by 2030.
Under the leadership of Dr. Shih Chung-liang, Director-General of the National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA), Taiwan continues to align its cancer care policies with international treatment standards. A major highlight of the Fund is the expansion of immunotherapy coverage, that began on June 1, 2025.
The new policy will benefit:
- 265–587 patients with colorectal cancer undergoing monotherapy, saving each approximately NT$1.68 million annually
- 1,591–1,930 patients with non-small cell lung cancer receiving combination chemotherapy, saving each up to NT$1.92 million annually
- 826–897 patients with triple-negative breast cancer, saving each up to NT$1.72 million per year.
This milestone reflects Taiwan’s growing commitment to health equity, innovation, and patient-centered care. As an NGO representing young patients, we are committed to working alongside partners—locally and globally—to ensure that access to life-saving treatments is a right, not a privilege. We hope Taiwan’s model can contribute to broader global conversations around universal health coverage and sustainable cancer care.”
Nicole Sheahan, GCCA President added, “The Taiwan Young Patient Association and the government of Taiwan have made a remarkable step towards equitable access to immunotherapy for cancer patients. As we know, in many cases, even when a treatment is available, it is not accessible until is is included in insurance coverage. Now, people across Taiwan can truly have access to immunotherapy for colorectal cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer. We are hopeful that this successful advocacy effort will galvanize other advocates around the world in their own efforts for equitable access.”