MEDICAL FRAUD

The central point of quackery is FRAUD.  No form of deception is as cruel or dangerous as that which not only takes the money of the victim, but possibly his/her health or even life.

WAYS TO IDENTIFY THE "QUACK"

  1. Any person who guarantees to be able to cure a disease is suspect.  Any high-pressure advertising phraseology is indicative of, at best an unethical practitioner, at worst, a quack.

  2. A statement that the individual has a secret formula or special treatment known only to them should arouse your suspicion.

  3. Responding to an advertisement will often lead to exposing quackery.  In California, only persons licensed under the Medical Practice Act are authorized to practice medicine and surgery.

  4. Great success by quacks is achieved through direct mailing.  Retired persons and senior citizens, are especially vulnerable to "cures" promoted through the mail.  Elaborate schemes are used for getting the victim to purchase all sorts of cure-it-yourself plans and devices.

  5. Food fads and false nutritional therapy are special types of quackery that flourish and are supported by some organizations.  While it is true that a proper diet may be of value in disease prevention and treatment, vitamins special foods and a dietetic program are safest when prescribed by a physician.  Those who rely on the advertising media for self-diagnosis and treatment run the risk of not getting the proper medical care where such is necessary to save or prolong life.

SAFETY TIPS:

  1. An accurate diagnosis by a qualified physician eliminates the opportunity for fraud.

  2. Don't fall for claims of an absolute cure.  Senior citizens and individuals who suffer from chronic illnesses/diseases such as rheumatism, arthritis and cancer are special targets for the quacks.  Only the recommendations of a qualified physician should be followed.


The snake oil merchant is still with us.  But today's quacks are highly sophisticated sales people who use widespread deceptive advertising to offer miracles like;

  • Instant cure for arthritis.

  • Lose weight overnight.

  • Grow more hair.

  • Look years younger.

  • Increase sexual powers.

Most of the gadgets and gimmicks advertised are not tested by competent medical authorities, and some are dangerous, so;

  1. Don't trust your health to a salesman.

  2. Don't believe claims of a secrete cure or miracle drug.

  3. Don't believe claims of excessive weight loss.

  4. Don't believe exaggerated claims of regained youth or the perfect figure.

Protect your health and your pocketbook.  Before purchasing any cure-alls check with your family doctor.