Chantell Reddiar was apprehended during a joint operation by the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA) and the SA Police Service. She was caught examining patients at a facility linked to her late father, Dr Stephen Reddiar, a registered medical doctor who passed away five years ago.

According to officials, Reddiar is not registered with the HPCSA as a medical practitioner. She was arrested on the spot and charged with contravening Section 17(1) of the Health Professions Act. She remains in custody at the Nelspruit Police Station and is expected to appear in court in the coming days.

The inspection also revealed that her father’s HPCSA registration is still active, suggesting that fees are being paid to keep the account current, raising suspicions of fraudulent use of his professional credentials.

Practising medicine without proper registration is a criminal offence in SA. The use of another person’s details, particularly a deceased practitioner’s details, to treat patients is considered a serious breach of the law and medical ethics.

The HPCSA warned that such acts not only undermine the integrity of the healthcare system but also pose real risks to the safety and wellbeing of the public. The regulatory body has reiterated its commitment to clamping down on illegal practices within the sector.

The HPCSA, a statutory body formed under the Health Professions Act of 1974, is responsible for regulating health professions in SA. It oversees standards of training, professional conduct, registration, and continuing development to ensure quality healthcare for all.

--ChannelAfrica--