Abstract
Objectives : This study aimed to provide basic data for future policies regarding the expansion of health insurance, through investigating the current status of Oriental herbal medicine insurance as perceived by the public. Methods : Questionnaire was developed through literature searches, in-depth interviews, item generation and item reduction. The questionnaires were further refined by a focus group. 221 surveys were retrieved from the general public. Results : The in-depth interviews, reveal that the public is aware of the various forms of Oriental herbal medicine formulas, except for the use of mixture of which are soluble granules covered by insurance. The public awareness of the soluble granules turned out to be so low that enhanced awareness of it is required. The public identified decoctions as the most preferred formula as well as the most effective formulas out of all Oriental herbal medical formulas. They also suggested that it should be the first to be included when the insurance policy expands in the future. The public had frequent experienced not choosing Oriental herbal prescription due to the high cost. Insurance coverage of Oriental herbal prescription is much needed. The public indicated that they will make frequent visits to the KMD if the insurance covers Oriental herbal prescriptions. Conclusions : The current status quo of Oriental herbal medicine insurance showed that the public identified decoctions as the most preferred, most effective and the top priority to be covered by insurance.
