Kaohsiung, Taiwan – After nearly five decades of serving the residents of Fengshan District, Dadong Hospital, one of the city’s oldest private medical institutions, is preparing to close its doors. The hospital, long regarded as a symbol of dedication and compassion, may cease operations as early as the end of August, sparking an outpouring of emotion and nostalgia from the local community.
The closure comes as the hospital’s beloved founder and director, Dr. Cai Senlang, 85, steps back due to his age and health. Dr. Cai, who has been practicing medicine for more than 50 years, originally intended to operate the hospital until December 31 of this year. However, hospital administrators have indicated that the final closure date may be moved earlier, with an official announcement expected soon.
A Lifetime of Service
Founded in 1975, Dadong Hospital has been a cornerstone of community healthcare in Fengshan. Dr. Cai, known to many as a “benevolent doctor,” has continued to treat patients daily despite his advanced age. His selfless service, particularly to vulnerable and low-income patients, has made him a respected figure not just in medicine, but in public service as well.
Over the decades, Dr. Cai became well known for waiving fees for patients in need and for donating to charitable causes, including scholarships for students in his hometown. His commitment extended beyond the hospital walls—he also volunteered with the Red Cross, providing disaster relief and emergency training. In recognition of his lifetime achievements, he was honored with the Taiwan Medical Model Award last year.
Closure Due to Lack of Successor
Hospital human resources director Zhong Qihui confirmed the closure decision, noting that Dr. Cai’s children live in the United States and have no plans to return to take over the family-run facility. Without a successor, continuing operations is no longer feasible.
“There’s a deep sense of reluctance among the staff,” said Zhong, who has served at Dadong for 37 years. “We’ve been through so much together. It’s like saying goodbye to family.”
The hospital currently employs 51 nursing staff, who will be offered transfer assistance to nearby medical centers, including Fengshan Hospital and the 802 Military Hospital. Physicians will make their own arrangements for future employment. The hospital is also coordinating proper transitions for patients and medical records, in compliance with health regulations.
An Emotional Goodbye
Dadong Hospital marked its 50th anniversary with a small thanksgiving tea party on June 15, where staff and long-time patients shared memories and bid farewell. The event, described by many as bittersweet, highlighted the deep personal ties between the hospital and the community it served.
News of the impending closure has sparked discussion on local forums like PTT, where netizens expressed surprise and sadness. Many called the hospital “a part of old Fengshan,” and reflected on personal experiences—from emergency treatments to routine care—that made the hospital feel like a second home.
“It’s a piece of history,” wrote one commenter. “The director was always there, rain or shine.”
Others pointed to the increasingly competitive medical landscape as a factor in the closure. Some speculated that larger neighboring hospitals and shifting healthcare dynamics made it hard for a small, privately-run facility to survive.
Still, many believe the decision was purely personal. “The hospital just got renovated a few years ago. It’s not about lack of patients—it’s because the director is finally ready to rest.”
What’s Next
While there is no confirmation yet on whether Dr. Cai will retire abroad with his family, hospital officials say that all closure logistics will be handled properly and sensitively. A formal announcement will follow soon, detailing the hospital’s last day of operations and transition plans for patients and staff.
As Dadong Hospital prepares to close, the people of Fengshan say farewell not just to a building, but to a legacy—one defined by kindness, integrity, and decades of unwavering public service.
