Dr. Jia-Fu Lee (李嘉富, left) of Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital noted during a medical outreach in Guangfu that some residents were still experiencing fear, stress, and sleep disturbances two months after the flood. | Photo: Yi-Chien Chen (陳誼謙)

In Guangfu Township, Hualien County, residents are working toward recovery two months after severe flooding caused by the overflow of the Matai’an River. The disaster on September 23 left many affected residents facing significant emotional and psychological stress. To address these needs, the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) launched a multidisciplinary medical outreach and psychological support program to assist the affected community.

Addressing lingering trauma

The floods and the subsequent formation of a landslide dam created widespread anxiety among residents. While early relief efforts focused on physical recovery, the emotional impact often becomes evident later. Dr. Jia-Fu Lee (李嘉富), a physician in the Department of Psychosomatic Medicine at Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital and vice convener of TIMA Northern Taiwan, observed during his visits to Guangfu that many residents continued to experience fear, stress, and sleep disturbances weeks after the waters had receded. “One cannot recover from trauma after one or two visits, it requires time and ongoing support,” he said.

Given the limited medical resources in Guangfu, TIMA doctors bring a range of mental health services directly to the community. These include non-pharmacological approaches such as cranial electrotherapy stimulation, near-infrared light therapy, flower therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and traditional Chinese medicine with aromatherapy. The team provides these treatments and also teaches residents simple daily stress-relief techniques, supported by instructional videos for use at home. “We hope to offer not only treatment but also practical tools residents can use every day,” Dr. Lee added.

At the medical outreach, volunteers set up private partition tents to create a safe space for residents to speak openly about their emotional distress. | Photo: Yi-Chien Chen

Holistic care for physical ailments

In addition to psychological support, the outreach program addresses a wide range of physical health needs. Every Saturday and Sunday, from November 22, 2025, to February 8, 2026, a team of medical professionals provides services in psychiatry, orthopedics, rehabilitation, dentistry, ophthalmology, and traditional Chinese medicine at a community venue near the Guangfu Post Office.

Orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Jwo-Luen Pao (鮑卓倫), noted that many elderly patients have pre-existing conditions such as spinal degeneration, often worsened by the recent flood. Without advanced hospital equipment, doctors rely on thorough consultations and physical examinations. “We listen carefully and offer guidance, and patients feel reassured and content,” Dr. Pao said.

Dental services focus on education, diagnosis, and referrals. Patients with periodontal disease are guided to local treatment options, while those needing full dentures are informed about government subsidies. The team emphasizes how improved oral health can enhance overall well-being.

Bringing care to every doorstep

For elderly residents with mobility challenges, the medical team extends its support through home visits. During one visit, a TCM doctor attended to Ms. Huang, an octogenarian. Ms. Huang and her daughter shared her health concerns, and the doctor provided electrotherapy and acupuncture, while also advising her daughter to arrange follow-up check-ups with other specialists.

Another example is Ms. Wu, a 90-year-old woman who had long experienced knee pain but had dismissed it as part of normal aging. After receiving orthopedic and TCM treatments, including acupuncture, during the outreach, Ms. Wu happily told volunteers that her pain had eased and she would not need painkillers that day. These personal encounters highlight the significant impact that accessible and compassionate care can have on individuals in the community.

The flood disaster in Guangfu prompted TIMA volunteers to hold a weekend medical and mental health outreach for the affected residents. | Photo: Yi-Chien Chen

The comprehensive medical and psychological support provided by TIMA in Guangfu Township offers a vital lifeline to residents navigating post-disaster recovery. By bringing specialized care directly to those in need, the program addresses immediate health concerns while fostering resilience and empowering the community to rebuild their lives with renewed hope.

Written by Yi-Chien Chen (陳誼謙), Yu-Chen Pan (潘俞臻)

Source: 光復災後心衛有醫靠 慈濟人醫假日多科整合義診