Embark on a captivating journey through the realms of surgical innovation and medical excellence at the Taiwan Room, a distinguished exhibition within the International Museum of Surgical Science. Established in 2012 through the initiative of the International College of Surgeons Taiwan Section (ICSTW), the Taiwan Room has recently undergone a remarkable transformation in response to the evolving landscape of healthcare technology.

In acknowledgment of the prevailing trend towards digitization in healthcare, the Taiwan Room has undergone a comprehensive hardware and software equipment upgrade. This revitalization aims not only to showcase the profound achievements in Taiwanese surgical medicine but also to align with contemporary advancements in the field, particularly in epidemic prevention and international collaboration.

The upgraded exhibit, which reopened its doors on September 14th, 2023, is a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to staying at the forefront of medical progress. Visitors to the Taiwan Room are immersed in a multi-dimensional experience that delves into the rich tapestry of Taiwan’s contributions to the global healthcare landscape. From pioneering surgical techniques to cutting-edge epidemic prevention strategies, the exhibit offers a comprehensive exploration of Taiwan’s remarkable journey in the field of medicine.

The re-opening ceremony held at the Museum on September 14th, 2023 was a momentous occasion, bringing together professionals, dignitaries, enthusiasts, and the public alike to celebrate the unveiling of a space that not only pays homage to the past but also embraces the future of surgical science. Food, drink, and Chinese moon cakes was served and guests had a great time. Attendees to the opening ceremony included:

  • President of International College of Surgeons Taiwan Section (ICSTW), Professor Cherng-Jye Jeng
  • Secretary-General of the International College of Surgeons, Taiwan Section, Associate Professor Ching-Chang Chen
  • Representative of Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO), Washington, D.C., U.S.A., Bi-khim Hsiao
  • Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Chicago, Dennis Yen-Feng Lei
  • Illinois State Representative, Rita Mayfield
  • Chicago City Council 43rd Ward Alderman, Timmy Knudsen
  • Hosted by representatives of the IMSS with remarks by:
    • Executive Director of the International College of Surgeons, Mr. Max Downham
    • Chairman of the Board of Directors of the International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS), Dr. Raymond A. Dieter

A special thanks to guests who traveled from Taiwan to be part of this special event.

Visit the Taiwan Room to navigate through the intricate web of Taiwan’s medical achievements, fostering an appreciation for the nation’s pivotal role in shaping the narrative of global healthcare.

The Taiwan Room was established in 2012 to highlight the medicine, surgery, healthcare topics, and international health cooperation in Taiwan. The exhibit was made possible through the generous support of the Taiwan Section of the International College of Surgeons and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago.

Through displays of hand-crafted artwork, cultural artifacts and antique medical tools, you can:

• Meet Taiwanese medical luminaries and discover their ground-breaking achievements in fields ranging from organ transplantation to emergency medicine.

• Learn about the accomplishments of the International College of Surgeons, Taiwan Section and other prestigious medical organizations and institutions in Taiwan.

• Get an update from Taiwan’s Department of Health on the country’s ongoing efforts to improve the health of its people, including the world-renowned National Health Insurance system.

• See how health statistics from Taiwan measure up to other countries and track the nation’s initiatives to enhance health abroad by mapping its international medical collaborations.

• Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the island archipelago Portuguese sailors called Formosa, meaning “beautiful.” 

• Explore the unique combination of traditional herbal medicine, folk remedies, and Western medical technology that led to the advanced healthcare services available in Taiwan today.

On October 10, 2020, the IMSS, ICS, and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago came together to celebrate the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) by decorating the Museum with dozens of pots of orchids in various colors and sizes. Traditionally known as the “Kingdom of Orchids,” Taiwan has been growing these beautiful symbols of elegance and sophistication for over 2,000 years. The seeds for the 10/10 orchids came all the way from Taiwan, imbuing them with an even richer significance and particularly special role in this important holiday. The orchids will be on display through the end of October, so don’t miss out!

This exhibit is presented by the International College of Surgeons, Taiwan Section (ICSTW) and made possible by the generous support of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago. The International Museum of Surgical Science is grateful for their continued support and enrichment.