Pregnant women who reach 36 weeks can receive one additional free prenatal ultrasound in Taipei City. The subsidy covers women registered in Taipei City and new immigrants whose spouses are registered there. Eligible women can visit any of 43 contracted medical institutions.
The scan assesses fetal size, position and estimated weight, as well as amniotic fluid, placental location, the umbilical cord and fetal heartbeat. The results help doctors plan delivery and follow-up care.
The central government subsidizes 14 prenatal checkups, including 3 ultrasounds at 8-16 weeks, around 20 weeks and after 32 weeks. Taipei City's added scan at 36 weeks provides another assessment closer to delivery.
International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology guidelines identify 36 weeks as an important time for late-pregnancy ultrasound. Its abnormality detection rate is 1.5 times that at 32 weeks. Further assessment can be arranged if fetal growth restriction, abnormal position or problems involving amniotic fluid, the placenta or umbilical cord are found.
Eligible women can make an appointment directly with a contracted institution without paying for the scan. The institution list, eligibility rules and application details are available in the "Helping You Conceive" section of the Department of Health, Taipei City Government website. Inquiries can be made by calling 1999, extension 1815.
