Health ministry receives 102 tips on improper treatment

The health ministry said its reporting center for suspected illegal and improper medical practices had received 102 tips as it investigates alleged exploitation of cancer patients.

The center began operating June 15 alongside a dedicated administrative investigation team to examine suspected illegal medical practices, including payback schemes and patient solicitation targeting cancer patients.

False or improper billing accounted for 27 reports, while illegal reimbursement of medical costs and patient solicitation or brokerage accounted for 26 each. One hospital was accused of fabricating admission records to help patients seek indemnity insurance payments, then returning part of their statutory out-of-pocket costs. Another allegation said a hospital conditioned admission on bundled non-covered treatments, urging patients to rapidly pay large bills.

Of the 102 reports, nine concerned bundled packages of non-covered treatments. Clinics accounted for 26 reports, followed by Korean medicine hospitals with 23 and long-term care hospitals with 21. Seoul accounted for 33 reports and Gyeonggi-Incheon 29.

"Medical care exists to protect patients' lives and health; it must not become a means of pursuing profit by exploiting their desperation," Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong said.

The administrative investigation unit has requested criminal investigations into 18 medical institutions and is considering more.

"Reports will be carefully assessed for credibility, then thoroughly verified through analysis by relevant institutions and on-site investigations," Kwak Soon-heon, head of the administrative investigation unit, said. "Where violations are confirmed, strict action will follow under the law and principles."

The ministry is considering additional administrative resources as the number of reports, types of suspected practices and institutions under suspicion rises. It plans gradually to extend the inquiry to suspected misuse of ADHD medications and patient solicitation or brokerage involving dialysis patients.