Seoul Medical Association seeks stronger self-regulation and investigative powers

Lim Hyun-sun, head of the Seoul Medical Association’s Expert Evaluation Team, has called for strengthened self-regulation within the medical community to restore public trust and secure autonomous disciplinary powers. Lim emphasized that true self-purification requires holding colleagues accountable through fair and objective investigations rather than protecting them.

The evaluation team is currently focusing on addressing unethical practices, including the illegal commercial use of medical narcotics, fraudulent insurance claims related to obesity treatments, and the operation of ‘office-run hospitals’ (illegal clinics managed by non-medical personnel). Lim noted that ignoring a small number of malicious cases risks damaging the reputation of the entire profession.

To improve effectiveness, Lim proposed several institutional reforms, including amending the Medical Service Act to grant the evaluation team minimal investigative powers and the ability to request necessary documentation. He also advocated for a closer cooperative system with the Ministry of Health and Welfare and local governments. Ultimately, Lim suggested the establishment of an independent medical license management body that separates investigative, disciplinary, and licensing functions to ensure a robust and transparent regulatory framework.