Melbourne massage therapist banned over concerns for public safety as investigation continues

A MOBILE massage therapist in Melbourne’s southeast has been banned from treating patients over fears he presents a safety risk to the public.

A MOBILE massage therapist has been banned from treating patients over fears he is a public safety risk.

Masseuse Michael Sergides is under investigation by Victoria’s Health Complaints Commissioner after a complaint earlier this month.

The allegations against Mr Sergides are deemed serious enough to demand an immediate 12-week prohibition order to protect the public, however Health Complaints Commissioner Karen Cusack said the confidential nature of the complaint meant further details could not be revealed.

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“I don’t issue these orders lightly but I’m satisfied that this was necessary to avoid a serious risk to the health, safety or welfare of Victorians,” Ms Cusack said.

As    well    as    a    personal 12-week ban, Mr Sergides’ Clyde North/Berwick business, Mobile Just Massage, has been hit with a 12-week interim prohibition order while a full ­investigation continues.

A mobile massage therapist has been banned from treating patients.

Mr Sergides declined to provide details when contacted by the Herald Sun on Monday.

“At this point, I am not willing to discuss that as I still have committal aspects related to the Health Department,” Mr Sergides said.

“There is an ­investigation … that is as far as you can know at this point.”

While massage therapists are not required to be registered as health practitioners, Mr Sergides received a ban under a code of conduct introduced in 2016 that covers alternative health service providers.

A mobile massage therapist has been banned from treating patients.

Health Minister Jill Hennessy said the legislation had beefed up HCC powers and ensured anyone misusing a position of power could meet the full force of the law. “Patients put their trust and faith in their health services provider and anyone who breaches that privilege must be stopped in their tracks,” she said.

While massage therapists are not required to be registered as health practitioners, Mr Sergides received a ban under a code of conduct introduced in 2016 that covers alternative health

service providers, including massage therapists.

Victorian Minister for Health Jill Hennessy.

Under the ban neither Mr Sergides or his business can advertise or provide and health service including massage.

If you have quality or safety concerns about a massage therapist, or any other health service

in Victoria, you can contact the HCC on 1300 582 113.