Victoria's Health Complaints Commissioner has issued a public warning regarding a Melbourne woman, Assma (Sarah) Samadi, who is alleged to have charged over $20,000 for unapproved treatments while pretending to be a medical practitioner.

Samadi was charged by police in July with trafficking steroids, possessing drugs, and common assault. Following an investigation launched on August 5, the Commissioner issued an interim prohibition order banning her from providing any health service in Victoria.

Commissioner Bernice Redley stated that Samadi, an unregistered health practitioner, allegedly offered treatment to an individual she was not qualified to provide and unlawfully supplied unapproved medications to treat a chronic illness. The Commissioner expressed concern that Samadi may have contravened the Code of Conduct under the Health Complaints Act 2016, prompting the public warning to prevent imminent and serious risks to health and safety.

Members of the public are encouraged not to engage with Samadi for any general health services.

Sources