Controversy Over Psychiatric Emergency Measures Prompts Medical Association to Call for Public Understanding

(Taipei, April 13 — Reporter Shen Pei-yao) Recent incidents have sparked public debate over psychiatric emergency procedures. The Taiwan Society of Psychiatry recently released a statement emphasizing that 'emergency transport' and 'involuntary hospitalization' are distinct legal processes at different stages, calling for rational public understanding to uphold both patient rights and societal safety.

Following high-profile cases such as the fatal stabbing involving a postal driver in Miaoli and the incident involving a teacher in Kaohsiung, psychiatric emergency interventions have drawn increased public attention. The Taiwan Society of Psychiatry issued a statement yesterday urging society to base its understanding on accurate legal and medical information to prevent unnecessary misunderstandings and public panic.

Dr. Li Chun-hung, Secretary-General of the Taiwan Society of Psychiatry, explained today that 'emergency transport' is designed to ensure patients receive timely medical evaluation and necessary assistance to reduce risks, not to automatically assume they require compulsory treatment.

Therefore, when an individual suspected of having a mental disorder appears to pose an immediate danger to themselves or others due to their mental state, police, fire services, health authorities, or other authorized personnel may legally assist in transporting them to an appropriate medical facility for professional assessment.

Dr. Li clarified that whether further involuntary hospitalization is required must be determined by a psychiatrist designated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The decision is based on a professional evaluation of the patient’s current mental condition, level of danger, and medical needs, in accordance with the current 'Mental Health Act,' balancing patient autonomy, procedural justice, and public safety.

In response to public concerns about the use of restraints in ambulances, Dr. Li emphasized that the public often confuses 'restraint straps' with 'medical restraints.' Ambulances are fast-moving vehicles, and their beds are narrow and shallow. 'The function of restraints is similar to seatbelts on highways,' he said, aimed at preventing patients from falling and getting injured during transport.

Dr. Li stressed that mental illness, like any other medical condition, requires understanding, support, and appropriate treatment—not stigma or labeling. Misunderstandings based on fragmented information may deter patients and families from seeking help, hindering early detection and treatment.

The Taiwan Society of Psychiatry emphasized that psychiatric teams always adhere to professional ethics and patient rights, following the principles of proportionality, minimal restriction, and the patient’s best interest. All medical interventions are conducted legally and subject to oversight mechanisms.

Moreover, the 'Mental Health Act' has established comprehensive mechanisms to protect patient rights. The Society noted that patients, families, or concerned parties with questions about medical procedures, hospitalization, or rights can raise concerns with medical institutions or seek assistance through local health bureaus and complaint channels to ensure their rights are fully protected. (Editor: Chang Ming-kun) 1150613

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