TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Medical experts are warning that attempts to fake heart conditions to evade Taiwan's mandatory military service cannot deceive physicians, following recent reports of celebrities allegedly using this tactic. Dr. Luo Hsu-zhong (羅勖中), a cardiologist at Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare (MHW, 衛福部) Chiayi Hospital, explains that physicians employ multiple verification methods including detailed medical histories and electrocardiogram readings to assess cardiac conditions.
According to Dr. Luo, Taiwan's military examination process includes robust safeguards against fraud. Examination officials attach the recruit's photograph to medical documents to prevent impersonation schemes. While physicians face no legal consequences when making determinations based on legitimate test results, those knowingly participating in fraudulent exemptions bear full legal responsibility. Dr. Luo noted that common evasion tactics — including deliberate weight manipulation and simulated fainting episodes — can be readily identified through standard medical verification protocols.
Dr. Luo recommends strengthening both medical record security protocols and examination precision to combat future fraudulent exemption attempts. He reassures the public that recruits without detectable heart conditions typically experience no health complications during their military service. Any genuine discomfort that develops should be immediately reported to military medical personnel, Dr. Luo advises, emphasizing the existing healthcare safeguards within Taiwan's armed forces.
The arrest comes amid a broader crackdown on military service evasion in Taiwan, where all men between 18 and 36 are required to serve. Actor Darren Wang (王大陸), 33, was taken into custody on Feb. 18 by New Taipei authorities investigating a network specializing in helping conscripts avoid military duty. After questioning, prosecutors released Wang on bail set at NT$150,000 (approximately US$4,940). Investigators allege Wang paid NT$1 million (about US$32,950) to fraudulently claim a heart condition exemption. ◼