Medical facility standards amendment: Nurse-to-patient ratios to be implemented in phases

Central News. Although nurse-to-patient ratios have been legalized, the amendment to the "Medical Institution Establishment Standards" has not yet been announced. Minister of Health and Welfare Shih Chung-liang stated today that President Lai Ching-te has declared a phased implementation, with the first phase scheduled for May 20 next year. The draft amendment is expected to be announced next week, including the implementation schedule. The Medical Care Act amendment passed its third reading on May 8, officially legalizing the ratios. Minister Shih noted that the Ministry is currently processing the regulatory announcement. Regarding concerns from civic groups that average calculations may not solve nurse burnout, Shih stated that the current standards and calculation methods implemented on March 1, 2024, will be maintained for now. These standards vary by hospital level, including medical centers, regional hospitals, and district hospitals.