TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei City Hospital has suspended a medical technologist at its Renai Branch after a female patient accused him of secretly filming her during an emergency examination, the hospital said on Thursday.
The incident allegedly occurred on the night of May 10, when the woman visited the emergency room. During an electrocardiogram examination, she claimed that the male technologist, surnamed Hsieh (謝), attempted to record her with a mobile phone as she changed clothes.
The patient immediately alerted the police. Officers arrived at the hospital around 2 a.m. on May 11 and inspected Hsieh’s phone on site, per CNA and UDN.
Although no incriminating images or videos were initially found, the device was transferred to a forensic unit for digital analysis and data recovery. Authorities are currently investigating the case under potential violations of laws protecting sexual privacy.
In a statement, the hospital said it promptly reported the matter to law enforcement. It also extended a formal apology to the patient and initiated a personnel review.
Hsieh joined the Renai Branch in May 2024. He has been issued a formal demerit and suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, per hospital regulations.
The hospital explained that electrocardiogram examinations are typically performed by trained technologists. However, male staff may carry out the procedure in emergency or late-night situations only if a female staff member or the patient’s companion is present.
An electrocardiogram is a common test used to monitor heart rhythm. The procedure involves removing items that may interfere with electrical conduction, removing upper clothing, exposing the chest, and lying flat.
Reaffirming its commitment to patient privacy, the hospital emphasized that mobile phones and recording devices are strictly prohibited in examination areas. All such items must be kept outside curtained spaces.
Taipei City Hospital condemned the alleged misconduct and reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward any illegal or unethical behavior by its personnel.
