Premier Sean Chen on June 24 asked the Ministry of the Interior (MOI) and the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure that all preparations are in order for Taiwan to adopt the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) system on July 11, 2012. The preparatory work includes amending laws and regulations on assessing the disabilities and needs of mentally and physically challenged persons, safeguarding their rights and benefits, and clearly communicating the changes with the public.
According to Premier Chen, the People with Disabilities Rights Protection Act was amended and promulgated on July 11, 2007, mandating that Taiwan's disability assessment system be changed within five years to use the eight categories outlined in the ICF, and requiring disability evaluations be conducted by professional experts. Since that time, the MOI and DOH have been revising procedures and legislation in accordance with the new classification scheme and carrying out parallel testing of cases.
Chen also asked the MOI to make use of mailings, pamphlets, Q&A, toll-free hotlines, and to set up meetings in conjunction with local governments to inform the public of their rights and explain differences between the old and new systems.
The DOH indicated that 238 assessment hospitals have already been designated nationwide with 2,638 doctors and 4,346 assessors trained for the new scheme. Meanwhile, over 8,000 disability cases have been tested in parallel since August last year to enable a smooth conversion.
In the initial stages of the new system, the DOH will work to minimize the impact of qualification changes for disabled persons. Upon expiration of an individual's Handbook for the Mentally and Physically Disabled—a kind of identification card that entitles the holder to welfare benefits—the individual may, under Article 12 of the Regulations for Implementing Disability Assessment, undergo a new assessment or request reissuance of an assessment report based on their original handbook.
To simplify procedures for acquiring disability certification documents, the MOI said the new system will offer "regular" and "concurrent" methods of assessment. Those applying for certification should pick up application and assessment forms from the district or town office of their registered domicile, and choose a method of assessment. The local social welfare department will then review and approve the welfare services requested by the applicant.
For those whose disability documents are still valid, the MOI said they can continue receiving welfare and services as guaranteed by the Physically and Mentally Disabled Citizens Protection Act. Those who hold expired certificates but are undergoing assessment may retain their existing benefits until the new certificates are issued.
The MOI indicated that the 16 related regulations that have been amended are each expected to be promulgated before July 11. Citizens with concerns or questions may contact their local social welfare department or dial the 1957 toll-free social welfare hotline.