Why Taiwan Should Be Your Next Destination for a Full Body Health Screening?

The pursuit of health and well-being has become more important than ever in this always-on, constantly changing world. Most of us are no longer just looking for quick fixes. We're seeking holistic experiences that nourish our bodies, minds, and souls. This is where the idea of health and wellness travel comes in, and there's one destination that perfectly embodies the best parts of this trend: Taiwan. 

Do you picture yourself indulging in rejuvenating hot springs, savoring the delicious and healthy flavors of local cuisine, and receiving top-notch health and wellness care at a fraction of the cost you might expect? Then it’s time to discover Taiwan, an island nation that blends the best of East and West, offering up a one-of-a-kind experience for every traveler. 

In this post, I’ll walk you through why Taiwan should be your next travel destination, especially for a full-body health screening, and to indulge in the wellness experiences this destination island offers. 

What makes Taiwan such a great health & wellness travel destination?

Taiwan is a relaxing and welcoming destination

Whether you're seeking a full-body health screening, exploring traditional therapies, a dip in the public hot spring, or simply looking to rejuvenate your mind and body, Taiwan provides a supportive environment where you can be your most relaxed self, allowing you to fully relax, let go of stress, and focus on your well-being. 

Wherever you go, you'll be greeted by the warmth and hospitality of the Taiwanese people. Their genuine friendliness, their willingness to help. Many hospitals have resources for those who do not speak Mandarin, and if you want to plan ahead, you can work with service platforms like New Dawn Health to ensure you’ll have a full English experience. 

Taiwan is a safe travel destination

Taiwan's commitment to social harmony, reflected in its low crime rates and strong sense of community, further enhances its appeal as a wellness destination. Visitors can feel safe and secure exploring the island, whether they're navigating bustling cities or immersing themselves in tranquil natural settings, day or night. 

A common story you hear from travelers is that misplaced cell phones or wallets are often safely retrieved by friendly hands. This peace of mind is essential for you to embrace the benefits of your chosen self-care services.

Taiwan invests in holistic well-being

Along with being a super safe destination, the island's investments in healthcare, education, and environmental protection reflect a commitment to creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This holistic approach to well-being is at the heart of Taiwan's appeal as a health and wellness destination. It's a place where you can find not only world-class western medical care but also traditional Chinese medicine, within a culture that values balance, harmony, and respect for all. Come discover the difference that inclusivity makes on your journey to well-being in Taiwan.

How to Plan Your Health and Wellness Travel to Taiwan

If you are interested in taking a health and wellness journey to Taiwan, let's first discuss the practical steps to make it a reality. 

Visa Requirements to Taiwan

Many nationalities can enter Taiwan visa-free for tourism purposes for a limited period (e.g., 90 days for US and Canadian citizens). You are free to consume elective health services such as health screening, dental, vision, aesthetic medicine, and fertility assistance. However, there is a Medical Visa requirement if you're planning to undergo major medical treatments such as surgical procedures, transplant operations, cancer treatments, etc, or if you are from Mainland China, Macau, and Hong Kong. It's advisable to review the guidelines published by Taiwan’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. 

Flights and Transportation

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the main international gateway, with direct flights from many major cities worldwide. Several airlines such as United, Eva Air, Starlux, and China Airlines offer competitive fares, especially if you book in advance. Once in Taiwan, you'll find an efficient and affordable public transportation system. The MRT (metro) in Taipei and Kaohsiung is clean, safe, and easy to navigate. High-speed rail connects major cities along the West Coast, while buses and taxis are readily available for local travel. Uber and FindTaxi are two commonly used apps. They are especially helpful because you can search and enter your pickup and destination addresses in English. 

Accommodation

Taiwan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels and resorts to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels, you'll find plenty of choices, especially in major cities. If you're traveling for health treatment, consider staying near your chosen hospital or clinic for convenience. 

Language Considerations

While Mandarin Chinese is the official language and Taiwanese Hokkien is commonly used, English is increasingly spoken, particularly in Taipei, tourist areas, and major hospitals. However, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases will enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Consider downloading a translation app (e.g., Google Translate) to assist with communication (and reading delicious food menus).

Currency and Payment

The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments, night markets, and public transportation. ATMs are readily available throughout the country, and you can find an ATM in any 24-hour convenience store.

Best Time to Visit

Taiwan has a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit for pleasant weather is generally from October to May. However, if summer months are your only availability, don’t let that stop you. Every indoor location in Taipei is covered with strong air conditioning, and the warm summer nights can be a great opportunity to explore the city. 

Taiwan Travel Itineraries

Whether you are looking for a layover itinerary in Taipei or a full week of visits, Taiwan has something for everyone - rich history and artifacts, natural getaways, outstanding culinary destinations, and endless nightlife. If you are looking for a multi-stop trip, Taiwan can also be used as a hub for you to hop over to Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, or the Philippines. 

What else makes Taiwan such a great health & wellness destination? 

Beyond the bustling night market and the lush mountainous landscapes, Taiwan offers a unique and compelling approach to health and well-being, seamlessly blending modern medical advancements with ancient healing traditions. Not only offers world-class preventive care but also a wide variety of health and wellness services. It's a destination that understands that true well-being encompasses not just the physical body but also the mind and spirit. 

Taiwan’s full range of health and wellness experiences makes sure all your bases are covered. It is for this holistic reason, Taiwan should be your next health and wellness travel destination. 

World-Class Healthcare 

Taiwan's healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in the world, where it has ranked #1 for six years in a row on the Healthcare Index by the CEOWORLD Magazine. It's a system that prioritizes both quality and accessibility, ensuring everyone has access to the care they need. A key feature is the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, a single-payer, universal healthcare program that covers all citizens and legal residents. 

This system provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and even Traditional Chinese Medicine. But what truly sets Taiwan's healthcare apart is its strong emphasis on preventive care and health maintenance. 

The NHI actively promotes regular health screenings and checkups, recognizing that early detection and prevention are far more effective and cost-efficient than treating diseases in their later stages. Adults are eligible for free health exams at regular intervals, which include comprehensive physicals, blood tests, urine analysis, and other screenings based on age and risk factors. Cancer screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, MRIs, endoscopies, and colonoscopies, are also widely available and encouraged.

Furthermore, Taiwan has seamlessly integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, dietary therapy, etc, into its healthcare system, offering a truly holistic approach to well-being. TCM is a comprehensive system of medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. It's based on the concept of Qi (vital energy) and the balance of Yin and Yang within the body. 

Many hospitals have dedicated TCM departments, and patients can often choose to receive TCM treatments alongside conventional Western medicine. This integration allows individuals to benefit from the best of both worlds, combining the scientific rigor of modern medicine with the ancient wisdom of TCM.

Hot Springs Wonderland 

Taiwan is blessed with an abundance of natural hot springs, thanks to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. These geothermal wonders are not just a source of relaxation but are also believed to have therapeutic properties, such as relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting skin health. From luxurious hot spring resorts to rustic public baths, there are countless ways to experience the healing power of Taiwan's hot springs. 

Beitou, near Taipei, is one of the most famous hot spring areas, known for its water that contains sulfur, which is believed to have health benefits. 

Wulai, also close to Taipei, offers a more tranquil setting, with hot springs nestled amidst lush forests. And in Jiaoxi, in Yilan County, you can enjoy unique sodium bicarbonate springs, known for their skin-softening properties.

The Art of Massage

Massage therapy is deeply ingrained in Taiwanese culture, and you'll find an abundance of service options in the major cities. From traditional Chinese massage (Tui Na), which focuses on the jin, the soft tissue that connects the body to improve circulation, to high-end foot reflexology, which focuses on specific points on the feet that correspond to different organs in the body. 

You’ll also easily find other styled massages such as Thai massage or Vietnamese shampoo massage (head massage with a hair wash). There's a type of massage to suit every need. What also stands out is that Taiwan’s massage therapists are highly experienced, and the prices are very affordable compared to Western countries.

Mountain Retreats and Mindful Practices 

Travelers visiting Taiwan often opt for urban convenience and miss out on the stunning mountain landscapes that provide a great place to relax, recharge, and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The island is home to 269 peaks that are higher than 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). You can easily access retreats and resorts in the mountains to immerse yourself in nature, practice mindfulness, and reconnect with your inner self. 

Yangminshan, Beitou, and SanXia are a few popular regions near Taipei. Alisan, Sun Moon Lake, and Xitou are located in central Taiwan, but they are definitely worth the trek if you have the time.

Tea Culture and its Health Benefits

With bubble tea’s popularity, it is probably not a surprise that tea is an integral part of Taiwanese culture. It's also a powerful elixir for health and well-being. Oolong tea, one of Taiwan's most famous exports, is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health, weight management, and reduced risk of various chronic diseases and cancers. Green tea and black tea both have similar anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to boost the immune system. The simple act of brewing and savoring a cup of tea can be a mindful practice, a moment of calm in a busy day. 

Maokong, in the suburbs of Taipei, is a common destination where one can take the picturesque gondola up to the foggy hilltop to enjoy a Taiwanese tea house experience. Luye in central Taiwan is another popular region to immerse in tea culture.

One last note on Tea, it is recommended to consume tea via loose-leaf tea and not individually wrapped tea bags to both reduce waste for the environment and avoid microplastic consumption intake for your health.

Edible Therapy (Healthy Cuisines)

Soup is for the soul: Beyond the ubiquitous Taiwanese beef noodle soup, you'll find a variety of broths and stews simmered for hours, extracting the essence of carefully chosen ingredients. Herbal soups are a delicious example of this, often based on traditional Chinese medicine principles. These soups are meticulously crafted using a combination of herbs, roots, dried fruits, and sometimes meats. For instance, Yao Dun Pai Gu (藥燉排骨) is a classic braised pork rib soup in medicinal herbs that you can find in some night markets, while Ginger Duck Soup (Jian Mu Ya) is a popular choice during colder months for its warming properties. These soups are a form of edible therapy deeply ingrained in Taiwanese culture.

Vegetarian paradise: Taiwan is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, with a vibrant and diverse plant-based culinary scene. This is due, in part, to the prevalence of Buddhism, which promotes a vegetarian lifestyle. 

There are abundant options throughout Taiwan, just look for the label Su (素). They range from humble cafeteria-style eateries where you can choose from a vast array of dishes to elegant restaurants to high-end buffets serving creative and refined vegetarian cuisine. What you’ll find is that Taiwanese chefs have mastered the art of creating delectable mock meats from ingredients like soy, wheat gluten, and mushrooms, mimicking the texture and flavor of traditional meat dishes with surprising accuracy.

Accessing Taiwan’s Affordable Full-Body Health Screening 

Preventive health screening is important to catch things before they become crises. In a world where information is abundant, our bodies are often still very opaque to us. Although not a common thing to do in Western countries like the United States, getting a full-body health screening done regularly is a common health practice in Taiwan.

Taiwan has a booming industry of world-class quality comprehensive health screening providers. This is because Taiwan’s labor law requires every employee to conduct regular health screening, and this regulation has manifested into attracting visitors from around the world who seek high-quality preventive care at a fraction of the cost they might pay in their home countries. This is particularly true when comparing healthcare costs to the United States. 

New Dawn Health is the leading English booking platform to help travelers navigate Taiwan’s healthcare system to make your experience seamless & relaxing. 

Different Tiers of Full-Body Health Screening

If you ever looked into this yourself, you’ll find that there is a myriad of screening packages to choose from to meet anyone’s needs. Despite the common naming of “Full-Body” health check-ups, there are significant variances in the offerings across dimensions such as depth of screenings and the user experience of screening. 

In terms of depth. The packages typically vary based on procedures and examinations included, body parts and organs evaluated, number of specialist physician consultations conducted, and sometimes the type of equipment used. 

On user experience. Each provider varies in the ambiance of facilities, customer service prowess, operational efficiency, English-speaking capabilities, and ability to generate reports to follow up with overseas physicians.

So how would you cut through the noise? Here is a simple framework to look at the options available: 

• Basic Health Screening primarily focuses on fundamental health assessments. It typically includes a physical examination, biometric measurements like height, weight, and blood pressure, and basic laboratory tests such as blood and urine analysis. This level of screening is designed to catch common conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, providing a general overview of an individual's health status. For those of you who are from the United States, this would sound very similar to the annual “physical” recommended by many doctors. 

• Comprehensive Health Screening, on the other hand, goes much deeper. Beyond the basics, it includes a wider array of tests and evaluations, such as advanced blood work, and imaging scans like X-rays and ultrasounds. The screening also often includes lifestyle assessments and physician counseling to provide a holistic view of one’s health. This provides a multi-dimensional view of health to make a better holistic risk assessment.

• Advanced Health Screening. In addition to the above, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography Scans (CT Scan), Endoscopies, and other examination techniques are used to conduct health screening. These advanced equipment and procedures help create a detailed image of your body to enable physicians to better examine your body and make more informed risk assessments and diagnoses. 

• Focused Screenings. These are screenings that use a combination of procedures mentioned above to create a focused examination for those with higher risk factors for specific diseases such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, gastrointestinal issues, brain aneurysms, and more due to family history, age, pre-existing conditions, or lifestyle choices.

Understanding the distinctions between these packages and help you make informed choices about the screening packages that suit your needs. 

Components of a Health Screening

Now, the most comprehensive exam encompasses more than 300 tests, examinations, and consultations combined. There are more details than one can remember, and even harder for someone who does not work in the medical field to understand. But here is an easy way to break it down for you: 

Foundational Exams

These exams and consultations are usually included in the basic packages, but the number of specific tests done in the laboratory can vary.

• Physical Examination: A physical checkup by a healthcare professional is the foundation of any health screening. This hands-on assessment includes evaluating the skin, eyes, heart, lungs, and abdominal organs to detect any signs of potential health issues. During this time, the physician may also collect information about your health, lifestyle, and family history to better understand risk factors.

• Biometrics Measurements: These measurements provide baseline data about your health and typically include height, weight, waist circumference, body temperature, heart rate, body fat percentage, and calculated body mass index (BMI).

• Blood Work (Lab Test): Components vary depending on how in-depth the package is. For starters, it should include a standard blood panel such as blood count, blood sugar (diabetes indicator), cholesterol levels, kidney and liver function, and thyroid hormone levels. More advanced packages can include cancer markers, hepatitis A/B, hormone levels, vitamin and mineral levels, and even genetic testing.  

• Urine Analysis (Lab Test): This screens for infections, sugar content (diabetes), protein (early kidney disease), and blood (may indicate infections, tumors, or kidney stones).

• Stool Tests (Lab Test): This is typically part of your digestive health package along with endoscopies. This checks for blood in the stool, a potential marker for colon cancer or other conditions like hemorrhoids.

• Eye Exam: Test for visual acuity and color vision and assess other potential issues such as the health of your optic nerve and eye pressure. 

• Hearing Exam: It’s common for health screening packages to include a basic hearing test or sometimes a more advanced exam that tests your hearing at different frequencies. This helps you better understand the acuity of your senses. 

Common Exams

These are often included in the recommended packages. The variances are usually based on your gender and the number of organs and regions to be screened - often determined by family history and thoroughness preference. 

• X-ray: A quick and painless procedure often used to examine the lungs, bones, and other areas for abnormalities.

• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body, such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, and pelvic region. More advanced packages can include thyroid and carotid arteries.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): A quick and painless test to check the heartbeat. It records the electrical signal in the heart and can help diagnose irregular heartbeats and heart attacks.

• Pap Smear: A screening tool for cervical cancer in women by collecting cells from the cervix for testing. This test is recommended every 3 years unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional. Sometimes the Pap test and human papillomavirus (HPV) test are done at the same time.

• Mammogram: An X-ray image of the breasts. It is used for breast cancer screening. A newer type of mammogram is called a 3D mammogram, which creates a three-dimensional image of the breast (vs. previously 2d).

• Body Compositions: This typically utilizes X-rays to understand bone mineral density (BMD) by measuring the amount of bone in areas such as your hip and spine. This exam can determine your risk for osteoporosis (prone to fracture), and provide a detailed measurement of fat mass, lean mass, and bone mass. DEXA is one of the popular devices used to conduct this exam.

Advanced Exams

These exams investigate deeper into one's health, create detailed imaging of your body, and allow a physician to have a clearer picture (literally) to evaluate your health risk.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and computer-generated radio waves to create a detailed image of the organs and tissues in your body. MRI machines are these large tubed-shaped devices that make a variety of clicking, buzzing, and knocking sounds. Because it uses magnetic fields and radio waves, there are no radiation concerns. 

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan provides a cross-sectional detailed image of the body. CT Scan machine can appear very similar to an MRI machine where it looks donut-like. But it is very different. CT Scan uses X-ray, so there is radiation. CT Scan is also much quieter. 

• CT Heart Calcium Score is a form of CT used to assess the risk of coronary artery disease by measuring the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. 

• CT Low Dose Lung Screening is designed to detect early signs of lung cancer, especially in individuals with high-risk factors due to smoking, environment, or family history.

• Angiography (and Contrast injections): In some MRI and CT exams, such as Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) and Brain Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA), a physician may recommend injecting a special dye called a contrast agent into the patient's bloodstream to help better visualize the details of one's blood vessel. This can be a bit uncomfortable, so be prepared. 

• Endoscopies such as Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy where the former is a procedure that examines the upper digestive system (often also called upper endoscopy) to focus on your esophagus and stomach, and the latter examines the large intestine and part of the small intestine. It’s used to look for polyps, cancers, and other issues. This is a very common procedure and only takes about 20 minutes. However, there are additional considerations to incorporate into your travel planning. The procedure has dietary restriction requirements a few days leading up to the exam, is often done with anesthesia (most people would to be sedated during this exam), and if there are any polyps removed, it is not advisable to fly within 7 days, 

If this is still confusing, don’t worry, you can schedule a free consultation with platforms like New Dawn to discuss your health screening needs and take a proactive step towards maintaining your health. Remember, early detection is key to preventing and successfully treating many health conditions.

Popular Health Tourism Services

In addition to preventive health screening, services such as dental care, vision correction, dermatology, and fertility treatments are also popular for international visitors. 

Affordable Dental & Cosmetic Care

From routine cleanings and checkups and whitening to more complex procedures like veneers, fillings, crowns, and implants, Taiwanese dentists offer a high standard of care at prices that are often significantly lower than in Western countries. Many dentists in Taiwan have received international training and use the latest technology and materials.

Taiwan has a high density of dental clinics, particularly in urban areas, making dental care readily accessible. However, the equipment, facilities, and English capabilities may vary. Although there is not yet a dental provider discovery platform serving English-speaking communities, a quick Google search should yield leads to competent dentists that meet your needs. 

Vision Correction

Taiwan has also become a popular destination for vision correction. Whether it’s to pick up a pair of glasses, stock up on contact lenses, or surgical procedures such as LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and SMILE PRO. These laser-based surgeries can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, often eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Ophthalmologists in Taiwan are highly skilled in these procedures, and many clinics use state-of-the-art laser technology. The cost of LASIK, PRK, and SMILE are typically materially lower than that of the U.S., and the recovery time from the procedures is just a few days. This makes it worthwhile to take the trek to get it done in Taiwan.

Skin & Aesthetic Treatments (Non/Minimally Invasive)

Although not as internationally well known as our neighbor countries like South Korea and Japan, you can find a wide range of treatments such as hydrafacial, chemical peel, microdermabrasion, RF microneedling, Intense Pulsed Light, botox injections, dermal fillers, etc. These procedures are often performed at a significantly lower cost than in many Western countries. Overall Taiwan’s clinics have very high standards of quality. However, it is advisable not to choose a vendor solely based on price. 

Fertility Treatments

Fertility treatments have become increasingly common across the globe as individuals and couples face challenges in conceiving, and Taiwan has emerged as a leading destination for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other fertility treatments. Taiwan boasts a high success rate for IVF procedures, thanks to its experienced fertility specialists, advanced laboratory techniques, and well-equipped fertility clinics. The cost of fertility treatments in Taiwan is considerably lower than in the United States and neighboring destinations like Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The cost savings is even more pronounced for egg and sperm storage services where there is a recurring expense. 

That said, there are legal and regulatory considerations when seeking fertility services in Taiwan. Taiwan’s assisted reproductive service is only limited to married heterosexual couples, and surrogacy is currently illegal. There are also travel considerations as it may require a longer duration of stay in order to receive the care you need. 

Stem Cell Therapy

This is a rapidly evolving field with the potential to revolutionize the treatment of a wide range of diseases. While still considered experimental in many parts of the world, stem cell therapy is more readily available in Taiwan, with a good number of clinics and hospitals offering treatments for conditions such as osteoarthritis, blood disorders, spinal cord injuries, certain immune cell therapies for cancer, and other neurological disorders. 

Taiwan is at the forefront of stem cell research and therapy, with a robust regulatory environment focusing on creating responsible regenerative medicine. At this moment, Taiwan offers treatments using both autologous (from the patient) and allogeneic (from a donor) stem cells. 

Are you ready for a healthier and happier you? 

Taiwan offers a truly unique and compelling proposition for those seeking a health and wellness destination that nourishes the body, mind, and soul. It's a place that integrated ancient traditions into a modern city, where cutting-edge healthcare is accessible and affordable. The natural beauty of mountains, cuisines, hot springs, and coastlines provides a backdrop for rejuvenation, mindfulness, and wellness. And where the warmth and hospitality of the people will make you feel instantly welcome.

We would love to help you plan your trip to Taiwan. You are invited to schedule a free consultation with New Dawn Health - whether it is about full-body health screening, medical visa, or just about Taiwan. We are more than glad to help.