TAIPEI - More than 200 migrant workers received free preliminary health screenings at Taipei Main Station on August 16 as part of an initiative aimed at improving access to healthcare.

The event was organised with medical personnel and volunteers from the Tzu Chi International Medical Association, offering services including ultrasound and dental examinations as well as consultations in orthopedics and gynecology, as reported by Focus Taiwan.

Taipei City government official Ho Fang-tsun, who helped organise the programme, said the initiative was particularly important for migrant workers who have limited opportunities to seek medical care.

Indonesian domestic worker Surya Dewi, who has lived in Taiwan for 14 years, said the service made it easier for workers who struggle to find time to visit clinics.

“(It was) very helpful because sometimes we don't have time to go to a clinic,” said the 51-year-old, who had her heart, teeth and eyes examined during her first visit to the programme.

Indonesian caregiver Istiyani, who has worked in Taiwan for eight years, also received acupuncture treatment for lower back and hand pain caused by lifting the elderly person under her care.

“It doesn't hurt anymore,” said the Taoyuan-based worker.

Ho said Taipei's cooperation with Tzu Chi dates back to 2004, when the programme was introduced partly to address healthcare access among the city's migrant workforce.

Taipei has about 50,000 migrant workers, many of whom work as live-in caregivers and may have only one day off each month, making it difficult for them to seek medical treatment.

“Family caregivers look after the health of our people, and we also hope to look after the health of migrant workers,” Ho said.

The programme has recorded more than 20,000 visits since its launch, while each of its health events this year has attracted more than 200 participants.

Ho said the initiative also provides follow-up assistance when screenings identify potential health problems requiring further medical attention.

“At our previous session (in June), we found that one migrant worker had about eight or nine uterine fibroids.

“We followed up with her and helped her go to a major hospital for further examinations,” Ho said.

The event was the third of four health sessions scheduled in Taipei this year, with the final session set for October 4 at Taipei Main Station.

The service is available to migrant workers legally residing in Taiwan, including those working outside Taipei, provided they bring their Alien Resident Certificates (ARCs).