TVGH suspends 3 doctors after video shows vendor taking part in surgery

Taichung, Jan. 18 (CNA) Taichung Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) on Sunday suspended three doctors from performing surgeries after video footage from July 2023 surfaced allegedly showing a medical-device vendor handling part of an operation.

The hospital said it would fully cooperate with investigations by prosecutors and health authorities, stressing that any illegal conduct will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The case involves allegations earlier this month that a medical-device vendor was allowed to enter multiple operating rooms and take part in procedures.

TVGH has acknowledged that three physicians permitted a vendor to enter operating rooms without proper reporting, but said an internal review found no evidence the vendor participated in operations.

However, renewed scrutiny following the circulation of video footage on a local media website on Friday appeared to show the vendor performing part of a procedure, prompting the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) to order a fresh review.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) said Saturday that authorities are reexamining the facts and that a joint task force, including local health officials, will conduct on-site inspections at the hospital.

He added that the local health authorities could launch an investigation if the hospital's earlier report is found to be incomplete.

TVGH said it convened an emergency management meeting Sunday after reviewing the footage and decided to suspend the three doctors from surgical duties during the investigation, with two also removed from managerial posts.

The vendor involved has been barred from entering operating rooms pending the outcome of the judicial investigation, the hospital said, adding that the head of its Neurological Medicine Center has been temporarily replaced by a vice superintendent.

The Taichung District Prosecutors Office is already handling the case, which could involve violations of the Physicians Act and the Medical Care Act if unlicensed individuals are found to have performed medical procedures.