Microinsurance Subsidy

A-Ming fell ill at the age of 30. His condition progressed rapidly, and within just a few months, his physical abilities deteriorated to the point where he could no longer walk. He was forced to resign from his job and recuperate at home. One day, A-Ming accidentally choked while eating and tragically suffocated. Amid shock and overwhelming grief, his family could only accept the heartbreaking reality through tears.

A-Ming’s parents were already retired. In addition to bearing his substantial medical expenses, the sudden funeral costs further worsened the family’s financial burden. They therefore contacted TFRD to seek assistance. After confirming that A-Ming had enrolled in a microinsurance during his lifetime, social worker promptly helped the family gather the necessary documents and submit a claim to the insurance company. The insurance payout of NT$300,000 was approved shortly thereafter, providing timely financial relief and supporting A-Ming’s family through one of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Many parents purchase insurance policies for their children shortly after birth. However, when many individuals with rare diseases enter the workforce and attempt to obtain insurance on their own, they are often denied coverage by insurance companies on the grounds of having a “pre-existing congenital condition,” leaving significant gaps in their risk protection.

Guided by our service belief—“If patients cannot find insurance, we will find it for them”—TFRD launched a Microinsurance Program for Rare Disease Patients in July 2012. Under this program, TFRD enrolls patients collectively and covers the full premium on their behalf. The policy provides coverage for:

1. Disability resulting from an accident (subject to the insurer’s disability grading criteria), and

2. Death resulting from an accident.

Claim definitions and assessments are handled by the insurance company, and the final payout amount is determined by the insurer.

Since its launch through 2025, a total of 5,868 patients have been insured under this program, with cumulative funding amounting to NT$5,222,936.