Family practice instructional development models in Taiwan, review and prospective

The National Health Insurance Program began in March 1995 in Taiwan. The success of the program depends largely on the operation of "Regionalization Medical Networks" which rely on family practice to provide cost-effective medical care. Instructional development activity needs to be addressed as the highest priority, to meet the impelling needs of family practice training. The acute shortage of family practice educators in Taiwan draws attention for a need of family practice faculty development programs, including short-term seminars and long-term fellowships. Continuing education programs in family practice help keep abreast the scientific as well as the social developments in familiarizing new guidelines of the National Health Insurance Program. Residency training programs that are community-based and ambulatory-oriented will prepare family practice resident physicians to make contributions for the future of "Regionalization Medical Networks". As well, the undergraduate family practice education programs will prepare future physicians with the adaptations and the challenges of the National Health Insurance Program. The allied health education programs are fundamental to build family practice teams to meet community health needs. Lastly, public education programs designed to familiarize the public with the National Health Insurance Program will help give the public an understanding and appreciation of the contributions of family practice in the health care delivery.