Queensland health ombudsman issues warning to public amid investigation into massage therapist - Australian Broadcasting Corporation

[Ned Hammond]

Queensland health ombudsman issues warning to public amid investigation into massage therapist​

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  By Ned Hammond
  
  
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  Topicoctors and Medical Professionals
  

2h ago2 hours agoTue 13 May 2025 at 4:02am

The Queensland health ombudsman is investigating health services provided by David Zhen and H2OMASSAGE. (ABC News: Rachel Clayton)

In short:​

The ombusdman said Mr Zhen and H2OMASSAGE have allegedly put patients at risk by recommending dangerous and ineffective treatments.

The OHO placed an interim order on Mr Zhen in June last year, prohibiting him from providing or supporting health services.

What's next?​

An investigation is underway and anyone who has received treatment from Mr Zhen is urged to contact the Office of the Health Ombudsman.




The Office of the Health Ombudsman has issued a warning to the public as it investigates alleged wrongdoing by a Queensland massage clinic director.

Health Ombudsman Dr Lynne Coulson Barr said the office has identified significant concerns with the health services and treatment provided by David Zhen and his company H20MASSAGE, saying they could worsen patients' conditions or put them in serious risk of harm.

The OHO placed an interim order on David Zhen in June last year, prohibiting him from providing health services to the public.

"Mr Zhen has placed his patients at high risk of serious harm by providing health services and treatments that could be dangerous and ineffective," Dr Coulson Barr said.

The OHO said it was investigating claims Mr Zhen provided dangerous and ineffective treatments and advice including claiming to treat and cure serious health conditions, discouraging patients from seeking conventional medical advice, and a lack of infection control procedures.

Only second public statement released by OHO​

Mr Zhen has allegedly treated people from Australia and overseas, including China, but the OHO said it has been unable to identify every patient.

Authorities have urged anyone who received treatment by Mr Zhen to get in contact, and recommended patients should always verify their health provider with the Ahpra registry and OHO website.

"We urge members of the public who have received a health service from Mr Zhen to seek medical advice from a registered medical practitioner, and to contact the OHO," Dr Coulson Barr said.

"This is only the second time the OHO has needed to release a public statement in order to protect the community.

"The vast majority of health practitioners across our state provide safe and appropriate care to their patients."

Posted 2h ago2 hours agoTue 13 May 2025 at 4:02am, updated 2h ago2 hours agoTue 13 May 2025 at 4:02am

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