41 Medical Aesthetic Clinics Found Violating Rules in Illegal Filming Scandal

Central News Agency, Taipei, May 28. Following a series of suspected illegal filming incidents in medical aesthetic clinics, 6 additional clinics have been found in violation, including 3 in Taipei, 2 in Taoyuan, and 1 in Chiayi. A total of 1,090 clinics have been inspected, with 41 found to be in violation. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) expects to publish the list of violators, including the city/county and business names, on its "Medical Aesthetics" section next week. The MOHW's Department of Medical Affairs reached a four-point consensus on May 13 regarding recording in medical institutions: strictly prohibiting hidden cameras, allowing normal cameras in public areas for security, allowing recording in low-privacy areas like consultation rooms with consent, and prohibiting recording in high-privacy areas like operating rooms. Local health bureaus have launched large-scale inspections. Liu Yueh-ping, Director of the Department of Medical Affairs, stated today that 1,090 clinics have been inspected and the list will be published next week. She explained that because the Medical Care Act lacks specific provisions, they had to confirm the legality of the announcement to protect rights. Deputy Director Liu Yu-ching added that following the previous 35 violations, 6 more have been added. Local health bureaus will impose fines of up to NT$500,000 and six-month suspensions on violating businesses.