Health watchdog bans alleged fake Melbourne doctor

Victoria's health watchdog has banned a man accused of posing as a doctor from offering any health services in the state for at least 12 weeks. The Health Complaints Commissioner issued a public warning against Maher (Michael) Aboudargham after launching an investigation last week.

This interim prohibition order follows allegations that Aboudargham provided unapproved medications to treat a person's chronic illness and falsely represented himself as a qualified medical practitioner. The watchdog took similar action against his alleged co-offender, Assma (Sarah) Samadi, the previous day.

Last month, Victoria Police charged both Aboudargham and Samadi with trafficking steroids. Police received reports that the pair were allegedly pretending to be medical practitioners in the Brighton East area and had charged over $20,000 for their services since the start of the year. Treatments allegedly included injections for a man with a long-term illness and administering substances containing vitamins and protein powder.

Bernice Redly, the Health Complaints Commissioner, stated that Victorians expect healthcare providers to be qualified, honest about their credentials, and offer safe and lawful care. "Where I believe there is a serious risk to the public, I will not hesitate to take action," Redly said. "This public warning and interim prohibition order have been issued to protect the health and safety of the Victorian community while our investigation is ongoing."

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Where I believe there is a serious risk to the public, I will not hesitate to take action. This public warning and interim prohibition order have been issued to protect the health and safety of the Victorian community while our investigation is ongoing.