The president of the Querétaro Medical Association, Rodrigo González Sánchez, expressed his concern about the proliferation of unlicensed doctors in the state, highlighting that this phenomenon is a recurring problem, especially in areas such as aesthetic medicine.
According to González Sánchez, the lack of mandatory regulation in medical membership is one of the main factors that allow the expansion of this problem.
Currently, the Querétaro Medical Association has 1,200 registered doctors, while it is estimated that there are about 10,000 practicing professionals in the state.
González Sánchez pointed out that this difference reflects the need for a regulatory framework that makes membership mandatory for all doctors.
“As long as membership is not mandatory, we will continue to see cases of unlicensed doctors, and this will continue to grow. It is a problem that not only affects the quality of care, but also puts patients at risk,” he said.
The representative of the Medical Association highlighted that the phenomenon is particularly visible in aesthetic medicine, where cases of uncertified professionals offering services are proliferating.
“Many of these cases go viral on social media, but they only represent a fraction of what really happens. It is unfortunate that this happens because people do not know where to go to report, which leaves many incidents without follow-up,” he said.
The problem is also related to the persistence of traditional medicine practices and quackery. González Sánchez explained that in Mexico, historically, there has been a strong tradition of alternative treatments, which has allowed people without a professional license to offer themselves as low-cost options.
“Since pre-Hispanic times there has been a tendency towards traditional medicine. Today, it continues to occur. If someone receives bad practice, many times they do not know that they can and should report it,” he said.
Another factor that influences the proliferation of unlicensed doctors is the cost of medical services. According to González Sánchez, many people opt for cheaper alternatives without verifying the legality or certification of the professional.
“If a chiropractor charges 3 pesos and a licensed doctor charges 100, many prefer to pay the lowest price. This cost gap allows people without the proper training to take advantage of the situation to offer their services,” he explained.
Source: diariodequeretaro
