Fake doctor exposed and arrested at Thembisa hospital

by Samantha Mochele

Doctors are entrusted with the critical responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of their patients. What happens when a supposed doctor turns out to be a fraud?

This alarming scenario recently unfolded at Tembisa Hospital, east of Johannesburg, where the Gauteng Department of Health uncovered a woman posing as a doctor.

The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was apprehended and handed over to the police following the revelation of her fraudulent activities and the suspect is expected to appear in court soon.

According to the Gauteng Health media statement, both police and health authorities are investigating how the woman gained access to the hospital.

Gauteng Health Department spokesperson Motalatale Modiba emphasised the danger posed by unqualified individuals impersonating medical professionals, noting that it is a criminal offence to practice without registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

The spokesperson urged employees and the public to remain vigilant against such imposters as they pose a risk to the lives of patients.

“It is a criminal offence for any person to impersonate health care professionals and to practice whilst not registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. We have called on our employees and the public to be vigilant against imposters who seek to undermine the work of health care professionals.”

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