Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ Over the course of three years, the South African Health Professions Council (HPCSA) has arrested more than 120 individuals who were posing as doctors in an extensive crackdown on fraudulent medical practices. The arrests were a result of an ongoing campaign by the HPCSA and the police to clamp down on illegal doctors operating in the country.
The spokesperson for the HPCSA, Christopher Tsatsawane, expressed concern over the increasing number of fraudulent practitioners and emphasized the significant threat they pose to people’s lives. He urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious doctors they encounter. Tsatsawane encouraged individuals to verify the legitimacy of a doctor by contacting the HPCSA or checking their credentials on the council’s website.
In response to parliamentary inquiries, Health Minister Joe Phaahla acknowledged that raids conducted in locations associated with medical practices greatly aided in apprehending these impostors. He emphasized that operating in the medical sector without the necessary approvals from the HPCSA is illegal. Registration with the council, as mandated by Section 17 of the Health Professions Act, is a prerequisite for practicing any health profession.
Phaahla’s response was prompted by concerns raised by Vuyolwethu Zungula, a Member of Parliament from the African Transformation Movement, regarding a Congolese national who was arrested for practicing illegally as a doctor. Phaahla stated that 124 individuals have been arrested for practicing medicine without registration with the HPCSA, with many of them operating in the private sector to receive cash payments discreetly.
Mvuyisi Mzukwa, the spokesperson for the SA Medical Association, commended the HPCSA for its efforts in addressing this pressing issue through the inspectorate office. Mzukwa highlighted that many of these impostors lack proper medical training or possess only partial qualifications. He urged continued collaboration among law enforcement agencies, the HPCSA, and the public to identify and apprehend more individuals involved in fraudulent activities, ensuring the welfare of South African communities.
