Liver C cluster at Antai Songhe Clinic Ministry of Health and Welfare: Report to be submitted by the end of the year in accordance with the Medical Precautionary Law

Director of Medical Affairs Liu Yueping said that in response to the hepatitis C cluster incident at Antai Songhe Clinic, the follow-up will follow the regulations of the "Medical Accident Prevention and Dispute Resolution Act" to clarify the systemic reasons for the incident. (Photo by reporter Lin Zhiyi)

A few days ago, a cluster of acute viral hepatitis C broke out at the Antai Songhe Clinic in Banqiao District, New Taipei City, due to multiple deficiencies in infection control. The Department of Medical Affairs of the Ministry of Health and Welfare launched National Patient Safety Week today. Director of Medical Affairs Liu Yueping said that in response to this incident, the follow-up will follow the regulations of the "Medical Accident Prevention and Dispute Resolution Act" to clarify the systemic causes of the incident, assess the flaws in the current system, and submit a report before the end of this year.

A total of 20 confirmed cases of hepatitis C have occurred in the Antai Songhe Clinic. The CDC and the local health bureau continue to call on relevant people to get screened as soon as possible. Liu Yueping pointed out that this hepatitis C cluster is also a medical safety incident. A systematic system review will be conducted in accordance with the "Medical Precautionary Law" and the cause of the incident will be clarified through third-party expert investigation.

Shi Chongliang, Minister of Health and Welfare, pointed out that the Medical Department of the Ministry of Health and Welfare held the "Patient Safety Week Launch and Results Presentation Conference" on the 16th. According to statistics, 74% of global deaths are from non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Among the 10 leading causes of death in Taiwan, 7 are NCDs. The government has currently launched the "Healthy Taiwan 888" policy on related issues, but "safety" is the most basic principle in NCD care.

Shi Chongliang said that the Ministry of Health and Welfare responded to this year's World Health Organization (WHO) World Health Day theme of "providing safe care for NCD" and hopes to reduce the harm in the care process of NCD. From prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, to long-term care and other stages, it is necessary to provide correct treatment and reduce unnecessary hospitalization. It will also be integrated into the 888 plan for promotion.