Taiwan officially entered a super-aged society in 2025, with individuals aged 65 and over accounting for 20% of the total population. In the context of rapid population aging, the establishment of comprehensive and high-quality end-of-life care models for patients with terminal cancer and non-cancer conditions has become a critical priority for the healthcare system. The advancement of palliative care services, along with the strengthening of research and the cultivation of interdisciplinary professionals, constitutes a core responsibility of the Hospital.
The development of palliative care in Taiwan has been recognized internationally and is ranked among the top in Asia. Throughout this progression, the NTUH palliative care team has maintained national leadership across clinical care, education, and research. It has also contributed significantly to system development and quality improvement.
In response to the growing demand for end-of-life care, NTUH has initiated the establishment of Asia's first Center for Integration of Supportive, Palliative, and Innovative Research & Education. This initiative aims to further strengthen the Hospital’s national leadership while expanding its global impact in palliative care. Building on existing strengths, the Center seeks to integrate research, education, and clinical practice into a coherent framework. It will also develop forward-looking care models and cultivate interdisciplinary talent. In parallel, the Center is positioned to advance international collaboration and academic exchange.