The Department of Health said it has concluded its investigation into a fertility clinic in Central following an incident in which embryo samples sent for genetic testing were found not to match the DNA of the intended parents.

The breach came to light in early July when Heal Fertility Limited failed to report the error to the department within the mandatory time frame.

Health officials then ordered management to submit an investigation report within four weeks.

As an interim enforcement measure, the clinic was instructed to stop accepting new reproductive technology cases and to make appropriate arrangements for its existing patients.

On July 7, the Council on Human Reproductive Technology suspended 14 of the clinic’s 17 licensed treatment services, permitting only three services related to the storage of gametes or embryos to continue during the probe.

The Department of Health said it received the investigation report on July 29, outlining both short-term corrective actions and long-term procedural reforms. These included revisions to the handling and storage protocols for embryos and biopsy specimens.

Following its review, the department determined that the clinic had been non-compliant with the Code of Practice concerning the timely reporting of Serious Untoward Events.

Health officials have since issued formal regulatory requirements, reiterating that all such incidents must be reported within 24 hours of identification.

The department said the clinic has updated its internal procedures and reporting forms to align with these standards, and that officials will continue to monitor the effectiveness of these changes.

In a separate development, the Council on Human Reproductive Technology held a special meeting on Thursday to review findings from its Investigation Committee and consider issues related to the clinic’s operating licence.

The council has directed the clinic to adopt further remedial measures. Until a final decision on the licence is made, the clinic will remain restricted to offering only its three storage services for gametes or embryos.

Meanwhile, police are investigating whether the incident involved intentional unlawful conduct.


Edited by Edmond Fong