Dozens of cases involving individuals presenting themselves as doctors or performing medical-related procedures without the necessary qualifications have been reported to police by the Cyprus Medical Association (CyMA) in recent years, highlighting growing concerns over unlicensed treatments and inadequately regulated health practices.
The issue was outlined during a press conference on pseudotherapies and the operation of unlicensed treatment centres by Michalis Anastasiades, chairman of the CyMA's Medical Ethics Committee.
Repeated cases, persistent challenges
According to Anastasiades, the cases reported to authorities are not isolated incidents but form part of a recurring pattern involving individuals offering medical-style services without recognised qualifications.
At the same time, medical practitioners accused of unscientific or unethical conduct have been referred to the association's Disciplinary Council.
However, he said investigations often become bogged down in lengthy procedures and difficulties in securing sufficient evidence.
For complaints to proceed before the disciplinary body, supporting testimony and documentation are required. Even when disciplinary decisions are issued, they can subsequently be challenged before the Administrative Court, extending proceedings significantly.
Cases often fail to progress
CyMA president Petros Agathangelou pointed to the case of an unlicensed centre in Larnaca, which has been under the scrutiny of authorities since 2022.
Previous complaints were investigated by police and referred to the Legal Service but ultimately did not result in criminal prosecution.
Although the files were closed, the centre continued operating until new information published by Politis led to an unannounced inspection and a third complaint being filed with police.
Agathangelou said he had discussed the matter with the Health Minister and advocated a joint meeting involving the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Justice and the Legal Service to identify weaknesses that allowed the earlier case to be closed without further action.
"Where was the error? Where was the deficiency in the process?" he asked, arguing that authorities need to determine whether shortcomings lie in legislation, investigations or evidence-gathering procedures.
Centre never obtained licence
According to Agathangelou, the centre had previously held exploratory discussions with government departments regarding the category under which it would fall.
However, it never secured an operating licence and was reportedly declared as a medical practice.
The case has reignited questions about oversight mechanisms and enforcement procedures relating to facilities offering specialised treatments.
Possible investigation into doctor linked to centre
The Medical Association has also left open the possibility of launching its own investigation into a doctor connected with the Larnaca centre.
The purpose would be to determine whether duties were assigned beyond the doctor's training, qualifications or experience.
Agathangelou stressed that registration in the Medical Register authorises a physician to practise medicine but does not automatically confer a recognised specialty or authorise every type of medical procedure.
"If a centre entrusts a colleague who lacks the necessary experience and training to manage such a facility, that may be a matter requiring an ex officio investigation by the Cyprus Medical Association," he said.
Wider review planned
Following the completion of a mapping exercise by the Health Ministry, the association intends to examine all doctors working with licensed and unlicensed centres offering similar treatments.
Agathangelou warned that even the public listing of a doctor's name as an official collaborator of an unlicensed centre carries both personal and medico-legal responsibility.
He added that involvement in such operations could ultimately have serious professional consequences, including damage to a doctor's career.
