The Korean Medical Association (KMA) criticized the police for conducting a raid on an emergency room while patient care was ongoing, marking the first such incident in the nation's history. The KMA demanded repeated apologies from the police who executed the warrant.
During its 85th regular briefing, the KMA addressed the recent raid on the pediatric emergency medical center at Ajou University Hospital, stating, "Due to the police's response justifying excessive investigation, seven specialists from the center have expressed their intention to resign."
The KMA pointed out that during a National Assembly audit on October 27, the head of the Gyeongnam Southern Police Agency's investigation unit failed to apologize despite demands from lawmakers, repeatedly stating it was "unfortunate." The KMA noted that this inappropriate attitude has further fueled anger and despair within the medical community.
They added, "This incident serves as a wake-up call for the weakened pediatric emergency medical system, and the responsibility for the anticipated collapse of this system and a significant medical gap lies entirely with the investigative authorities."
In response, the Korean Society of Pediatric Emergency Medicine plans to hold an emergency press conference at the KMA headquarters on October 30. Additionally, the KMA will host a National Assembly forum on November 10, focusing on "Rational Investigation Methods for Protecting Patient Lives."
KMA spokesperson Kim Seong-geun emphasized, "We are not debating whether emergency rooms are sacred or not. It is unacceptable to employ excessive methods when evidence can be obtained through other means, and this should not apply to medical institutions or any other sector."
Kim also remarked, "Today marks the fourth anniversary of the Itaewon tragedy, which shocked the nation. We extend our condolences to the victims and heartfelt sympathy to their families. As a physician, witnessing the collapse of emergency medical services on such a day is profoundly disheartening. We urge responsible individuals to make decisions that will lead to a resolution of this situation and a return to the right path."
Meanwhile, senior police officials announced they would visit Ajou University Hospital around 2 p.m. today. While the specific purpose of the visit has not been officially confirmed, it is widely perceived as an effort to mitigate the fallout following the collective resignation of the seven pediatric emergency specialists.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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