TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung Veterans General Hospital is under investigation over allegations that physicians allowed medical device company personnel to enter operating rooms without proper authorization.
The case stems from Jan. 7 after CtWant reported that three doctors permitted company representatives to take part in procedures, according to UDN. On Thursday, Department of Medical Affairs Director Liu Yue-ping (劉越萍) said the hospital had submitted a preliminary verbal explanation acknowledging at least one violation, according to CNA.
Based on the hospital director’s report, one physician allowed a company representative into an operating room without completing the required registration procedures, Liu said. The hospital has stressed that the company personnel did not perform surgeries.
Taichung’s city health bureau has already inspected the hospital and referred the case to prosecutors for further investigation. The Ministry of Health and Welfare has ordered the hospital to submit a written report, with the deadline set for Thursday.
Liu said the hospital director's account of the situation does not constitute illegal medical practice under the Physicians Act. However, it may violate hospital management regulations under the Medical Care Act.
Hospitals found in breach face fines ranging from NT$50,000 (US$1,585) to NT$500,000. Repeated violations could result in multiple penalties.
DPP lawmaker Lin Shu-fen (林淑芬) called on Monday for stricter documentation of any non-medical personnel allowed into operating rooms. She said hospitals should be required to clearly record their identities, roles, and whether patient consent was obtained, according to CNA.
Lin also urged the ministry to establish whistleblower protections to shield staff reporting violations from criminal liability.
Liu said the ministry will review the hospital’s report once it is submitted and may carry out on-site inspections with medical experts if necessary. Officials are also preparing new operating room management guidelines, which are expected to be completed within six months.
Proposed measures include introducing color-coded surgical attire to better monitor who is present in operating rooms.
Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) said the ministry will work to ensure all hospitals fully understand the relevant regulations, potential penalties, and their legal responsibilities. Future guidelines will explicitly address the presence and management of non-medical personnel in operating rooms.
