DH suspends licence of day procedure centre in Causeway Bay
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"Upon receipt of a complaint about a suspected mishandling of medical equipment by a DPC, Dr MD Clinic and Ambulatory Centre located at the World Trade Centre in Causeway Bay, the DH immediately investigated and conducted unannounced inspections. During the inspections, the DPC was found to have contravened the Code of Practice for Day Procedure Centres under the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, namely improper handling and management of an anaesthetic drug, failure to properly sterilise medical equipment, and inadequate staff training and supervision. In addition, the DPC was suspected to have filled in false information in the checking and monitoring of records, including those concerning medical equipment.
The DH has not received any reports of adverse events related to this DPC on the matter so far.
Given the potential risks to patients of the multiple serious breaches of the Code of Practice, and in order to protect the public interest, the DH announced the suspension of the DPC's licence with immediate effect. The DPC in question will not be allowed to provide any specialised services listed on its licence, including surgical and anaesthetic procedures.
At the same time, the DH has initiated the process for cancellation of the licence for the DPC concerned. Under sections 30 and 31 of the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, the licensee will be given a 14 days' notice and an opportunity to make representations within 10 days from the date of the notice given to the licensee before the licence is cancelled.
If there is sufficient evidence, the DH will also refer the case to the relevant enforcement or professional regulatory bodies for necessary follow-up action on the suspected use of a false instrument and professional misconduct by the person involved.
The DH reminds those who have undergone anaesthetic procedures, including tumescent anesthesia at the above-mentioned DPC, to seek immediate medical attention if they feel unwell.
The DH will continue to closely monitor licensed private healthcare facilities to protect patient safety."
Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Issued at HKT 12:30
Issued at HKT 12:30
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