In order to boost Taiwan's sagging birth rate, the government has offered a series of subsidies for expectant parents over the years. However, many obstetricians has pointed out in a recent press conference that the incentives the authorities have given are far from adequate.

This newborn baby's cry is loud and clear, but it is becoming more rare to hear such a sound as Taiwan's birth rate is the lowest in the world as it was just 0.9% last year.

This means that the average woman does not have a child.

Obstetricians say that the government's care for pregnant women does not do enough leading fewer women to want to give birth.

Gynecologists say that prenatal care and maternal care are the most important and basic ways to ensure that a fetus and mother are healthy.

However, current subsidies are not enough.

For example, a prenatal check up sees the government paying 200 NT$.

But most check-ups include a subsidy of 230 NT$.

And prior to pregnant women giving birth as well as education after birth and associated services along with a rubella screening receives less subsidy than other hospital treatments.

Also, it only pays for one ultrasound exam, which is less than other diseases and the compensation is less. Gynecologists and obstetricians call upon the government, to pay attention to maternal care, so that women do not have to pay for their check-ups making more pregnant women feel at ease.

In response, the National Health Insurance Bureau said that it would review the current subsidy system.

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