A scandal over illegal medical practice has once again shaken Catalonia. In Amposta, police have arrested a man who was providing dental services without any formal education or license, operating directly out of a residential apartment. This case has alarmed local residents, as it involves not only a violation of the law but also a direct threat to patients’ health.
The situation came to light thanks to a patient who noticed irregularities during his visit. The man was seeing clients in an ordinary room where he also lived, sometimes with assistance from his wife. The lack of professional equipment and sanitary conditions raised suspicions, prompting the patient to consult the professional community to check the ‘specialist’s’ credentials.
Inspection and arrest
The inspection revealed that the detainee had neither a diploma nor membership in any professional association. Despite this, he continued seeing patients, even after a fire broke out in the building. Following the incident, the premises were left roofless, and ash covered the floor. Nevertheless, the man insisted he could continue working and even offered the patient treatment under these conditions.
The affected patient decided not to finish the treatment course, although he had already paid for it in full and in cash. After contacting the professional organization, it was confirmed that the ‘dentist’ was not listed among official practitioners. Police launched an investigation that confirmed all suspicions. The man was arrested on charges of illegal medical practice and brought before the court.
Consequences for Patients
This case highlights how dangerous it is to seek help from unverified specialists. Patients risk not only losing their money but also suffering serious harm to their health. In this instance, despite clear signs of unsanitary conditions and a lack of license, some people continued to trust their problems to an unqualified individual.
Police note that such cases are not isolated. In recent years, Spain has seen a rise in illegal medical practices, especially in smaller towns and among vulnerable populations. The reasons include the high cost of official services and a lack of information about the risks.
Public Response
The public outcry following the arrest was significant. Many local residents are discussing how such schemes can still exist today. People are questioning not only the actions of the arrested individual but also the lack of oversight by authorities and professional organizations.
This is not the first time illegal medical activities have been reported in Amposta. Police remind everyone: any suspicions of illegal practice should be reported immediately. Only this way can new incidents be prevented and public health protected.
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly uncovered cases where people without medical training were providing services in private homes. Underground clinics, in which even surgical procedures were performed, have been shut down in several regions. The authorities have stepped up inspections, yet the problem remains pressing. Experts stress the importance of always verifying a specialist’s qualifications and not entrusting your health to random individuals.
