Didier Raoult Appeals Ban from Medical Practice
Didier Raoult, the controversial figure in the medical community, is challenging a two-year ban on practicing medicine imposed by the National Order of Physicians. The former director of the Marseille University Hospital Institute (IHU) announced his intention to appeal to the Court of Cassation following a ruling by the national disciplinary chamber on October 2, which found him guilty of promoting hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for Covid-19 without sufficient scientific backing.
The Order of Physicians had initially issued Raoult a reprimand in December 2021, but deemed it too lenient, leading to the appeal that resulted in the more severe sanction. The chamber criticized Raoult for his lack of credible data in public statements, his unbalanced remarks regarding health measures, and conducting a study on 30,000 patients without appropriate authorization.
Raoult has expressed that the decision is surreal, stating, "It's all about communication. We wonder if Salvador Dali is in charge, because it's surreal to ban medicine from a doctor who hasn't practiced for three years and who has withdrawn from the Council of the Order. It's madness." His lawyer, Fabrice Di Vizio, emphasized that Raoult feels his defense rights were violated and that the clinical trials attributed to him were mischaracterized.
Ongoing Investigations and Controversies
In addition to the disciplinary actions, Raoult is under investigation by the Marseille prosecutor's office for alleged unauthorized clinical trials. Reports have indicated serious dysfunctions at the IHU concerning the quality of research and care activities, raising further scrutiny over Raoult's practices during his tenure.
Despite his recent challenges, Raoult maintains that he has not practiced medicine for years and questions the implications of the sanctions on his professional reputation. His appeal to the Court of Cassation is seen as a critical step in addressing the broader implications of his case on medical practice and governance in France.
