Bogus Doctors: More than 124 fake doctors in three years!

Bogus doctors are everywhere in South Africa, and the latest ‘Dr Lani’ saga might be a reflection on the amount of fake medical professionals out there.

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According to a BBC news report, there have been more than 124 bogus doctors arrested over the last three years! This statistic is said to have been confirmed by South Africa’s Department of Health.

Here’s more about just how bad South Africa’s ‘bogus doctors’ issue has become, and what to do if you think you’ve spotted a fake at work.

DR MATTHEW LANI: TIKTOK DOCTOR IN TROUBLE

‘Dr’ Matthew Lani made headlines after posing as a doctor for TikTok videos, while having no actual medical qualifications.

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While Lani first claimed to have a medical degree from the University of Witwatersrand, this was later found to be completely untrue when the institution denied it.

In the latest turn of events, the initial charges against ‘Dr’ Lani have been dropped by the National Prosecuting Authority citing a lack of evidence in the matter. The NPA has also noted that Matthew might still be charged further pending an investigation into his activities and claims.

BOGUS DOCTORS: 124 FAKE DOCTORS IN THREE YEARS

A news report by BBC has claimed that at least 124 fake doctors have been arrested in the past three years.

ALSO READ: Bogus Dr Matthew Lani has been arrested [watch]

Among these is the arrest of Matthew Lani, whether or not the initial charges stuck.

This isn’t South Africa’s only case of a fake medical practitioner doing the rounds. In April 2023, The South African website reported yet another bogus doctor arrested for claiming to be a medical professional without qualifications or registration.

ALSO READ: Where to check South African qualifications and degrees when in doubt

Check a doctor’s qualifications using their Practice Number, even when everyhing might appear legitimate.

CHECKING FOR BOGUS DOCTORS

A ‘fake’ doctor is anyone who claims to be a medical professional (or medical specialist) without the necessary qualifications or registration.

The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) regulates doctors and relevant professions.

A legitimate doctor must register with the HPCSA, where you are able to check their qualifications and registration details. If a doctor doesn’t show up on the HPCSA register, they are not registered to practice.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS?

What are YOUR thoughts on South Africa’s bogus medical doctor crisis?

Send us your thoughts at info@thesouthafrican.com; alternatively you can send us a WhatsApp message on +27 60 011 0211 to tell us what you think!