Assessment of Efficiency and Impact of Taiwan’s Medical Aids to Allied Countries

In Taiwan, medical aid to resource-limited countries has been proposed as a useful method to gain their friendship. Taiwan government spends millions of funds on medical aids, including short- and long-term medical missions. In addition to medical service, an increasing number of health personnel of allied countries are trained by professionals of Taiwan. However, an evaluation protocol for medical aid is still lacking. In our preliminary literature review, a standard method for the evaluation of medical aid is not present. Thus the current study is to establish an evaluation method to help Taiwan in the dispatch of medical missions. We will use 6 dimensions to conduct the study - including (1) sustainability, (2) education, (3)preparedness, (4) impact, (5) efficiency, and (6) cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, we will adopt the opinions of donor (Taiwan) and recipients (allied countries) to adjust the factors or analyses for a better evaluation protocol. After the preliminary standard being planned, we will use it to evaluate current medical aids. We will use questionnaire survey for local patients and participating health professionals to determine whether our protocol is suitable or needs further modification. Our study not only provides a standard method for evaluating medical aid of Taiwan government but also serves as an important reference for non-profit organizations that are willing to participate in medical assistance.