Punishment for Chinese Patients Denied Medical Treatment Without Reason

Hospitals Facing Rejections... Concerns Over Medical Law Violations and Refusal of Emergency Patients

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Jung-yoon] "There are many patients today, so it is difficult to provide treatment." Son Ji-seong (29, female), a Chinese national, recently visited a dermatology clinic she usually goes to with her Korean husband but was refused treatment. Her husband, suspicious of the quiet hospital lobby, called the clinic and was told that treatment was available. Son said, "I understand the concerns about the novel coronavirus infection, but deceiving patients does not seem right," adding, "I am afraid that I might be refused treatment just because I am Chinese if I get seriously ill."

With the spread of the novel coronavirus, more hospitals are avoiding treating Chinese patients or those who have visited China. In particular, in areas of Seoul Gangnam densely populated with plastic surgery and dermatology clinics frequented by Chinese people, blatant discrimination is occurring, such as posting notices stating "No entry for Chinese patients."

Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Medical Service Act stipulates that "medical personnel shall not refuse treatment or obstetric requests without justifiable reasons." If refusal of treatment is confirmed, the medical personnel may face up to one month suspension of their license, imprisonment for up to one year, or a fine of up to 10 million won. Choi Myung-jip, president of the Korean Medical Association, said, "Refusing treatment based on nationality when there are no symptoms is wrong," and added, "Refusing treatment without special reasons regardless of nationality is clearly illegal."

The authorities have also stated that they will crack down on refusal of treatment. On the 4th, Seongnam City sent an official letter to 939 medical institutions, stating, "If complaints arise about refusal to treat patients who need medical care solely because they have visited China, such refusal may result in administrative sanctions and prosecution."

Some doctors are resisting. If a confirmed patient visits, not only could other patients be harmed, but the hospital also risks closure. A dermatologist in private practice said, "Refusing treatment goes against professional ethics, but doctors must also consider other patients in preparation for any situation."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.