Nurse nabbed for operating STD clinic

A registered nurse has been arrested for trying to pass herself off as a licensed physician while operating a clinic specializing in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Julie Acero, 36, was apprehended inside her office at the Calpe Medical Clinic on Mabini Street, Ermita in an entrapment operation by agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

The entrapment was conducted following a medical malpractice complaint lodged by Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) chairwoman Antonieta Fortunable.

According to the complainant, Acero has been misrepresenting herself as a medical specialist on venereal diseases, when in fact she is a registered nurse by profession.

CIDG chief Director Nestorio Gualberto directed his men to conduct the sting operation against the suspect, who according to the PRC, has already victimized a number of patients.

Before the operation, a CIDG undercover agent was examined by a legitimate physician and given a clean bill of health. He then posed as an STD patient at Acero’s clinic.

As expected, the bogus medical practitioner, claimed the policeman had STD and charged him P400 for the check-up.

After handing over the marked money to Acero, CIDG agents moved in and arrested the suspect.

Apart from Acero, CIDG agents also questioned Ellen Grace Gumaban, a clinic employee. Gumaban said the clinic has been operating for quite some time.

Cases of estafa and illegal practice of medicine were filed against the fake doctor with the Manila Prosecutor’s Office.