Taiwan renal data report system: Framework, function, and development

Abstract

The world healthcare system is actively seeking possible solutions for the rapid growth of kidney disease threats. The Taiwan Renal Data System (TWRDS) was central in assisting kidney health and care policymaking to reduce end‐stage kidney disease incidence and mortality. This article summarizes the TWRDS framework, recent applications, and developments to provide new insights for some international researchers to promote planetary kidney health. The TWRDS originated in 1987 for the accreditation and quality monitoring of dialysis units and was connected with enriched health claim databases after the implementation of universal national health insurance in Taiwan in 1995. As a healthcare information centre, TWRDS has published annual reports forming indispensable instructions for renal care improvement since 2014. The TWRDS possesses three main functions: (1) kidney disease surveillance; (2) offering rich materials for research purposes; (3) achieving precision prevention and care through complex algorithms. In the new era, TWRDS can help build a more resilient society against communicable disease threats by integrating remote sensor techniques for developing future remote healthcare structures, as well as identifying kidney health inequity populations and promoting healthcare resources distributed equity. The global healthcare system is facing escalating burdens of non‐communicable disease care due to the rapidly growing elderly population. Therefore, a considerable‐scale data system is an essential decision‐supportive tool in promoting an evidence‐based, resilient, sustainable, equity care environment. Undoubtedly, TWRDS experience is a practical example of leveraging healthcare providers' decisions, care outcomes, and renovation.