Kunshan Private Hospital Under Investigation for Allegedly Forcing Patients to Spend 7,000 Yuan
Suzhou, China – The KunshanMunicipal Health Commission has announced an investigation into a private hospital, Kunshan Hongqiao Hospital, for allegedly pressuring doctors to ensure patients spend at least 7,000 yuan (approximately $970 USD) per visit. The commission has confirmed that the hospital has been found to have violated several medical regulations,including failing to adhere to proper treatment protocols, neglecting to properly document patient records, and improperly using antibiotics.
The allegations against Kunshan Hongqiao Hospital first surfaced in early August, sparking widespread public concern. A whistleblower claimed that thehospital had implemented a quota system, requiring doctors to generate a minimum of 7,000 yuan in revenue per patient. This sparked outrage among the public, who expressed concern about the potential for medical malpractice and overtreatment driven by profitmotives.
In response to the allegations, the Kunshan Municipal Health Commission formed a special investigation team on August 8th to thoroughly examine the hospital’s practices. The investigation revealed that the hospital had indeed engaged in several unethical and illegal activities. The commission has officially filed a case against the hospital on August 12th and has completed the necessary procedures, including evidence collection, deliberation, legal review, and the delivery of a notice of intent to impose administrative penalties.
The commission has stated that it will impose administrative penalties on the hospital based on relevant laws and regulations. The exact nature of these penalties has not been disclosed, butthey are likely to include fines, suspension of operations, or even the revocation of the hospital’s license.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in regulating the private healthcare sector in China. While private hospitals have played a crucial role in expanding access to healthcare services, concerns about profit-driven practices and a lack of oversighthave led to calls for stricter regulations.
The investigation into Kunshan Hongqiao Hospital serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical medical practices and the need for robust oversight mechanisms to ensure patient safety and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The public is closely watching the outcome of this case, hoping that it will leadto meaningful reforms in the private healthcare sector and deter similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Background:
China’s healthcare system is a complex mix of public and private institutions. While public hospitals are typically subsidized by the government and offer more affordable care, they often face overcrowding and long waiting times. Private hospitals, on the other hand, are generally more expensive but offer faster service and a more comfortable environment.
However, the rapid growth of the private healthcare sector has also raised concerns about a lack of transparency and accountability. Some private hospitals have been accused of engaging in unethical practices, such as overcharging patients, prescribing unnecessary treatments, and prioritizing profit over patient well-being.
The Chinese government has been taking steps to address these concerns, including strengthening regulations, promoting transparency, and encouraging competition within the healthcare sector. However, the challenges remain significant, and the Kunshan Hongqiao Hospital case serves as a stark reminder of the need for ongoing vigilanceand reform.
【source】http://www.chinanews.com/sh/2024/08-29/10276434.shtml
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