Health group warns Aussies about dodgy dental practitioner making rounds in the country
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When it comes to our health, trust is everything, especially when sitting on the dentist's chair.
That's why a recent warning from an Australian watchdog sent shockwaves through the community, particularly for those of us who value proper medical care.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) issued its very first public warning in light of the 'name and shame' medical laws circulating in the country.
The AHPRA warned everyone of a health practitioner who has victimised several Aussies left with no answers.
Peter Terzi, also known as Peter Taylor, is a Western Australian practitioner who held dual registration as a dentist and a nurse.
Last February, AHPRA suspended Mr Terzi from practising both professions after serious concerns about his conduct.
However, the watchdog stated that Mr Terzi still continued his work as a registered dentist or nurse despite his suspension.
AHPRA believed that his actions posed a 'serious risk' to the public.
Mr Terzi has been facing criminal charges for allegedly pretending to be a registered dentist.
He also allegedly performed restricted dental procedures despite being an unregistered practitioner.
He has pleaded not guilty before the courts.
This was the first time AHPRA used its new powers to issue a public warning about a specific practitioner.
According to AHPRA's CEO, Justin Untersteiner, these statements are only made in 'exceptional circumstances', as it could be a genuine safety concern for the public.
The threshold for such a warning is set very high, so the fact that this has happened should make us all sit up and take notice.
Unfortunately, cases like this are a reminder that not everyone in a white coat is qualified to practise.
The new laws allowing AHPRA to 'name and shame' practitioners were introduced two years ago but had not been used until recently.
This law should protect the public from medical fraudsters and ensure that anyone who might be at risk is informed as soon as possible.
If anyone has received treatment from Peter Terzi since 26 February, AHPRA urged everyone to contact their Criminal Offences Unit immediately.
The same goes for those who have any related information about Mr Terzi.
As people age, seniors need more specialised medical and dental care, for they are more vulnerable to unscrupulous operators.
It's vital to stay informed and vigilant, not just for ourselves but for our friends and family as well.
If you're due for a check-up soon, you may check a health practitioner's registration status by visiting the AHPRA's public register here.
Have you ever had a strange experience with a health practitioner? Do you check your dentist or doctor's credibility before booking an appointment? We love to hear your stories, tips, or questions in the comments below.
READ MORE: Over 20 patients left in lurch by suspended practitioners: 'Nowhere near finished'
That's why a recent warning from an Australian watchdog sent shockwaves through the community, particularly for those of us who value proper medical care.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) issued its very first public warning in light of the 'name and shame' medical laws circulating in the country.
The AHPRA warned everyone of a health practitioner who has victimised several Aussies left with no answers.
Peter Terzi, also known as Peter Taylor, is a Western Australian practitioner who held dual registration as a dentist and a nurse.
Last February, AHPRA suspended Mr Terzi from practising both professions after serious concerns about his conduct.
However, the watchdog stated that Mr Terzi still continued his work as a registered dentist or nurse despite his suspension.
AHPRA believed that his actions posed a 'serious risk' to the public.
Mr Terzi has been facing criminal charges for allegedly pretending to be a registered dentist.
He also allegedly performed restricted dental procedures despite being an unregistered practitioner.
He has pleaded not guilty before the courts.
This was the first time AHPRA used its new powers to issue a public warning about a specific practitioner.
According to AHPRA's CEO, Justin Untersteiner, these statements are only made in 'exceptional circumstances', as it could be a genuine safety concern for the public.
The threshold for such a warning is set very high, so the fact that this has happened should make us all sit up and take notice.
Unfortunately, cases like this are a reminder that not everyone in a white coat is qualified to practise.
The new laws allowing AHPRA to 'name and shame' practitioners were introduced two years ago but had not been used until recently.
This law should protect the public from medical fraudsters and ensure that anyone who might be at risk is informed as soon as possible.
If anyone has received treatment from Peter Terzi since 26 February, AHPRA urged everyone to contact their Criminal Offences Unit immediately.
The same goes for those who have any related information about Mr Terzi.
As people age, seniors need more specialised medical and dental care, for they are more vulnerable to unscrupulous operators.
It's vital to stay informed and vigilant, not just for ourselves but for our friends and family as well.
If you're due for a check-up soon, you may check a health practitioner's registration status by visiting the AHPRA's public register here.
READ MORE: Over 20 patients left in lurch by suspended practitioners: 'Nowhere near finished'
