South Korean police investigate hospital's mass discharge of 40 psychiatric patients

Authorities in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, have launched an investigation into a hospital's decision to discharge all 40 patients from its psychiatric ward. The Pyeongtaek Police are examining the legality of the transfer process, with a particular focus on whether proper consent was obtained from both patients and their guardians.

The hospital reportedly decided to close its psychiatric ward, leading to the decision to discharge the 40 inpatients. Medical records, including referral letters for patients transferring to other facilities, were prepared by a doctor on May 30. Hospital staff informed employees about the ward closure and discharge decision on June 2, and patients were reportedly discharged that same afternoon.

According to reports from the Anjung Public Health Center in Pyeongtaek, hospital staff claimed that the discharge procedures were carried out after obtaining consent from patients and their guardians. However, the police are actively investigating to verify these claims and ensure the process adhered to medical laws.

Police have stated their primary focus has been on confirming the whereabouts of the discharged patients, whose conditions are reported to be stable. Investigators plan to interview health center officials and hospital representatives to clarify the details of the patient transfers. The investigation is proceeding under suspicion of violating medical law.