Woman's $750,000 Lawsuit Against TCM Doctor Dismissed for Lack of Evidence

A woman in Nantou, Taiwan, has had her lawsuit against a traditional Chinese medicine doctor dismissed after seeking $750,000 in damages. The patient, identified as Ms. Hong, had sought treatment for physical conditioning and relief from discomfort following cancer therapy. During a consultation, the doctor reportedly told her, "You would have been beyond saving 20 years ago."

Ms. Hong alleged that this statement constituted public insult, caused her severe emotional distress, and violated five of her rights: life, health, privacy, reputation, and credit. She claimed the doctor's words destroyed the trust in the doctor-patient relationship, leading to the infringement of her credit rights. She sought damages of $3.5 million for life rights, $1 million each for health, privacy, and reputation, and another $1 million for credit rights, totaling $7.5 million.

The doctor denied making the specific statement and argued that even if he had, it was a necessary medical explanation of the patient's objective condition within the privacy of the examination room. He contended that such remarks, even if unpleasant, do not constitute an infringement.

In its ruling, the Nantou District Court found insufficient evidence to support Ms. Hong's claims. While she claimed to have surveillance footage from the consultation room, she failed to submit it. The only evidence provided was a call log with the local health bureau. Consequently, the court dismissed the lawsuit, finding no grounds for the requested compensation.