Taipei fines clinics NT$3.26 million in anti-spyware crackdown, investigates privacy breaches

Taipei's health authorities have intensified their crackdown on medical institutions, conducting extensive inspections and imposing significant fines. As of June 9, the Taipei City Department of Health had physically inspected 230 clinics, beauty salons, and postpartum care facilities, issuing fines totaling NT$3.26 million.

During administrative investigations, three clinics, Zhanqian Shengyi Clinic, Shengyi Clinic (Daan), and Junqi Meili Clinic, were found to be pre-collecting fees and violating charging standards. Each of these clinics was fined NT$50,000 for contravening Article 22, Paragraph 2 of the "Medical Affairs Act." The fines, based on the "Unified Fines Standards for Violations of the Medical Affairs Act," ranged from NT$50,000 to NT$150,000 for a first offense. In total, these three clinics were fined NT$150,000.

The health bureau emphasized its commitment to investigating any evidence of illegal acts infringing on citizens' privacy. Such cases are subject to administrative investigations and are simultaneously referred to judicial authorities for further legal proceedings. For violations of medical-related regulations, the bureau pledges to impose the most severe administrative penalties.

Furthermore, the department has received 148 cases related to privacy breaches and alleged illegal filming in medical settings, prompting requests for refunds from consumers. The health bureau is actively mediating between clinics and the public to resolve these disputes. Simultaneously, administrative investigations are underway, and any further violations of the Medical Affairs Act will be dealt with according to the law to protect citizens' rights.