The Health Ministry’s recently launched platform for information on gender-related incidents involving medical personnel has triggered controversy over the handling of those under investigation.

The website (https://ma.mohw.gov.tw/Accessibility/VIOSearch/MASearchVIO) shows doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, nutritionists, midwives, medical laboratory technicians, and other medical professionals who have been convicted of sex crimes and the locations of their practices. It was established after focus on a series of sexual harassment and assault cases at the National Taiwan University (NTU) Hospital Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

However, after investigations into the NTU cases, three implicated doctors are still practicing, sparking public outrage. Legislators and civil society groups have called for suspension during any investigations and for the immediate revocation of their medical licenses and permanent prohibition from practicing if found guilty. The Health Ministry has responded that the matter will be considered at a meeting in late August.

Several medical associations have expressed opposition, arguing that the immediate suspension of medical personnel based solely on allegations before the judicial investigation is complete violates the constitutional principle of presumption of innocence. They argue that this not only infringes upon the fundamental rights of the individuals involved but could also negatively impact the continuity of medical care for patients.

The associations’ joint statement also pointed out that when doctors are involved in disputes, civil and criminal avenues for justice are already available. They argue that perpetrators may face prison sentences, fines, and damage to their reputation, so revocation of medical licenses and lifetime medical bans as administrative sanctions would result in excessive and unbalanced consequences.

Taipei Medical Association Chairman Hung Te-jen (洪德仁) advocated for temporary disciplinary measures during the judicial process, such as administrative supervision or restrictions on specific medical practices, rather than immediate and complete suspension. He said that once the verdict is final, the authorities can then exercise discretion, based on proportionality, regarding whether to revoke the license. According to Hung, this approach balances justice and the sustainability of the medical profession.