Ozone Clinic Castle Hill raided by Health Care Commission, handed temporary ban

A provider of a controversial, alternative medicine has been slapped with a temporary ban amid an investigation by the healthcare watchdog, following a search warrant of their clinic in Sydney’s northwest.

A provider of an alternative medicine known as “ozone therapy” is being investigated by the healthcare watchdog, following a search warrant of their clinic in Sydney’s northwest.

On Thursday, the Ozone Clinic in Castle Hill was slapped with a two-month interim order prohibiting it in any circumstances from providing health services, including “administration of any medication and/or intravenous and skin puncture procedures”.

In a statement from the Health Care Complaints Commissioner, a spokesman confirmed the ban was for eight weeks but could be extended if required.

“The Health Care Complaints Commission has determined that an Interim Prohibition Order against the Ozone Clinic at 77 Cecil Ave in Castle Hill NSW 2154 is required to protect public health and safety, while an investigation into a complaint is conducted,” the statement said.

The order was imposed following a search warrant of the clinic when the commission’s inspectors and an officer from the Therapeutic Goods Administration was also in attendance.

NSW Police confirmed they had officers in attendance as a precaution but no criminal charges have been laid.

A screenshot from the clinic's Facebook page.

It is understood the search and orders are part of a larger investigation by the commission into ozone therapy, an alternative medicine practise built on the belief that ozone gas — a form of oxygen — has restorative, healing qualities.

The therapy’s purpose is to reduce inflammation, boost immunity and promote healing through increasing the amount of oxygen in the body.

When approached for comment, a spokesman for Ozone Clinic called the allegations “regretful” and said the clinic had a “strong commitment to improving the lives of those who come through our doors”.

“We are not averse to feedback, criticism and nor is our clinic above the law, it is regretful that the HCCC has levelled allegations primarily centring around the safety of ‘ozone therapy’ which our clinic has stood by,” the statement said.

“We are hopeful that the process that ensues will be of educational value for the HCCC and anyone interested in this type of therapy.”

In an updated statement, a spokesman from the HCCC reminded the public “safety is paramount when seeking alternative health treatments”.

“Always verify the credentials of practitioners and ensure the treatments offered comply with regulatory standards. Any concerns or complaints should be directed to the HCCC,” the statement said.