New Taipei Therapist Accused of Sexually Assaulting Children; Health Bureau to Investigate Patient Numbers

Democratic Progressive Party New Taipei City Councilor Huang Shu-chun yesterday exposed that a speech therapist at a clinic in Banqiao allegedly sexually assaulted and molested child patients during consultations. Currently, eight children are known to be victims. Huang Shu-chun reiterated in a council inquiry today that many parents are seeking help and do not know where to turn. She asked if there is a unified contact point for handling cases.

New Taipei City Vice Mayor Liu He-ran responded that the therapist has been detained and the city government is currently investigating and providing counseling. The Health Bureau will proactively investigate children who received treatment from the therapist. The Social Affairs Bureau will serve as the contact point for notifications. When the 113 hotline or the Family Protection Center receives cases involving sexual assault or harassment, relevant SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) will be activated.

New Taipei City Health Bureau Director Chen Run-chiu stated that a special task force has entered the clinic for proactive inspection and has requested the person in charge to assist in clarifying the number of patients handled by the therapist. They will trace back the number of children who came into contact with the therapist during her practice period. Social Affairs Bureau Director Li Mei-chen said that if children are suspected of being assaulted, parents can call 113 to report, and social workers will assist in handling the cases.

Huang Shu-chun inquired whether professionals who "invisibly harm children" could have their therapist licenses proactively revoked. Chen Run-chiu explained that local governments can revoke practice licenses, preventing practice in any location for one year. After one year, the matter falls under the central government's responsibility. As the therapist certificate is issued by the central government, it requires amendment of central legislation. The Health Bureau has already sent an official letter to the Ministry of Health and Welfare for discussion on legislative amendments. (Editor: Zhang Yajing) 0408