The Office of the Health Ombudsman has issued a warning to the public as it investigates alleged wrongdoing by a Queensland massage clinic director.
Health Ombudsman Dr Lynne Coulson Barr said the office has identified significant concerns with the health services and treatment provided by David Zhen and his company H20MASSAGE, saying they could worsen patients’ conditions or put them in serious risk of harm.
The OHO placed an interim order on David Zhen in June last year, prohibiting him from providing health services to the public.
“Mr Zhen has placed his patients at high risk of serious harm by providing health services and treatments that could be dangerous and ineffective,” Dr Coulson Barr said.
The OHO said it was investigating claims Mr Zhen provided dangerous and ineffective treatments and advice including claiming to treat and cure serious health conditions, discouraging patients from seeking conventional medical advice, and a lack of infection control procedures.
Only second public statement released by OHO
Mr Zhen has allegedly treated people from Australia and overseas, including China, but the OHO said it has been unable to identify every patient.
Authorities have urged anyone who received treatment by Mr Zhen to get in contact, and recommended patients should always verify their health provider with the Ahpra registry and OHO website.
“We urge members of the public who have received a health service from Mr Zhen to seek medical advice from a registered medical practitioner, and to contact the OHO,” Dr Coulson Barr said.
“This is only the second time the OHO has needed to release a public statement in order to protect the community.
“The vast majority of health practitioners across our state provide safe and appropriate care to their patients.“