Concerns Raised Over Delays in Hepatitis B Compensation Review Process

Statement Overview

On December 4, 2023, the AdIre Law Office issued a statement expressing profound concerns regarding the significant delays in the review process of the Hepatitis B compensation system. This program was established to provide swift restitution to individuals impacted by past government policies. However, it has come to light that many applicants are facing lengthy wait times, negatively affecting their treatment and overall well-being.

Urgency of the Situation

The statement pointed to alarming reports suggesting that the delays might be exacerbated by the government's Digitization Transformation (DX) initiatives. Furthermore, evidence indicated a decrease in the number of settlement cases by 2025, raising questions about the functioning of this critical compensation mechanism.

Critical Findings from the Survey

On August 8, 2023, an urgent survey was conducted targeting individuals who had received compensation under the system. Out of 161 respondents, several key findings surfaced:

1. Use of Compensation for Medical Costs: More than half of the respondents allocated their compensation funds primarily to cover medical expenses. Some had to take out new loans to cover outstanding treatment costs, highlighting the financial strain they face.

2. Treatment Delays: Many mention that due to the slow governmental response, they had to postpone or even halt necessary treatment and tests. This illustrates the real impact and restrictions on victims' access to care, which is incredibly serious.

3. Progression of Health Conditions: Approximately 10% of survey participants reported that their health deteriorated during the application process. This points to the concerning possibility that lengthy reviews contribute to further health damages.

4. Need for Shorter Review Times: Over 70% of respondents strongly advocated for reducing the review periods, with many expressing a dire wish for completion within one year.

Our Position

The survey findings reflect the harsh reality faced by each victim. The potential deterioration of health conditions due to postponed treatments shows that those who are supposed to be rescued by the government are instead pushed further into difficult situations by bureaucratic delays. This is a matter that warrants serious regard.

Demands to the Government

In light of this situation, the AdIre Law Office strongly urges the government to take immediate actions, including:

1. Reduction of Review Periods: Set a target of concluding reviews within one year.
2. Increasing Personnel for Review: Strengthening the review process team to facilitate quicker evaluations.
3. Transparency in the Review Process: Providing clear explanations regarding the reasons for the existing delays.

The improvement of this compensation system is critical to protect the lives and livelihoods of those affected. There can be no delay in addressing these concerns.

Conclusion

The Hepatitis B compensation system was established under the premise that the government would be accountable for the restitution of those harmed by its past actions. Ongoing delays in the review process, leading to prolonged settlement times, can ultimately lead to the deterioration of victim's health, financial distress, and exacerbation of symptoms. Therefore, we urgently call upon the government to take swift actions towards reducing these delays. The AdIre Law Office is also considering formally submitting a petition based on the heartfelt requests and situations of the victims.

For more information on the survey regarding the increasing health, living, and economic burdens due to delays in the Hepatitis B compensation review process, visit: Hepatitis B Compensation Survey