PATIENTS in Kirklees and the surrounding areas have been warned about a doctor’s scam.
Local NHS fraud specialists received a security alert regarding ‘bogus doctor’ phone calls to elderly patients.
Wakefield NHS Wakefield District’s Director of Finance, Andy Leary said: “Our understanding is that the caller is contacting patients by phone recommending medication and requesting payment.
“Unfortunately, because the bogus caller is very convincing as a doctor, some patients have then provided their bank or card details and the money has been taken but no drugs received.
“We’ve let all our staff and GP practices know so that they can help warn patients. Our advice is to remind patients to be wary of anyone who asks for their bank details.
“If the caller persists, the patient should tell them they’ll check with the surgery and call them back.”
Stephen Eastlake, 63, of Flockton, is a patient at Middlestown Surgery, Wakefield, and saw the notice.
He said: “I think it’s disgusting that these criminals are targeting those who are must vulnerable.
“I saw the sign and wanted people to be aware of it.”
The investigation was prompted earlier this year after a patient from the Lancashire area handed over money to the bogus doctor.
