The National Police of Spain have arrested a 34-year-old Cuban man accused of impersonating the identity and credentials of a doctor specializing in digestive health. The individual managed to consult nearly 800 patients at a private clinic in Madrid between July 2023 and April of this year.
The Cuban man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was not authorized to practice medicine in Spain. The Spanish media has not clarified whether the detained individual was actually a doctor in the specialty he was offering services. According to reports, the investigation began in early April following a complaint from a physician who claimed that someone else was using his professional credentials.
The complainant revealed that he had worked at a clinic in the capital as a specialist in digestive health and endoscopies until July 2023 and that someone continued to consult there, pretending to be him. As the investigation progressed, the authorities discovered that the clinic's website and the consultation records still listed the complainant’s details, but it was not him attending to the patients.
Furthermore, it was confirmed that patients left the clinic with prescriptions and medical tests ordered using the complainant's registration number, and that the Cuban impersonator was not authorized to practice medicine in Spain. The police estimate that during his tenure at the unnamed private clinic, the impersonator handled over a thousand appointments with 784 patients.
The police have also investigated the manager of a company that supplied professionals to various medical centers as a necessary accomplice, though he has not been arrested. This company had previously employed the impersonated doctor.
On April 22, the Cuban individual was detained as a suspect for crimes including identity theft, document forgery, and professional malpractice. He was subsequently brought before a judge. During the arrest, authorities seized two medical stamps as well as four prescriptions and referral forms for tests, all bearing the complainant's stamp.
The investigation established that the individual had been hired by the manager of a company responsible for recruiting specialized professionals in digestive health to supply medical centers. This company billed a percentage of the fees paid by different insurance entities for consultations and medical tests prescribed by their professionals. The complainant had worked at this company until July 2023.
FAQs on Medical Identity Theft in Spain
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the recent case of medical identity theft in Spain, which may provide further insights into the incident.
How was the impersonator discovered?
The impersonator was discovered after a complaint from the real doctor, who noticed someone was using his professional credentials at the clinic.
What actions did the police take during the arrest?
During the arrest, the police seized two medical stamps and four prescriptions and referral forms with the complainant's stamp from the impersonator.
What charges is the Cuban man facing?
The Cuban man is facing charges of identity theft, document forgery, and professional malpractice.
Was the manager of the recruiting company arrested?
No, the manager was investigated as a necessary accomplice but was not arrested.