A 39-year-old man from Bon Air North, D’Abadie, appeared in the Arima Third Magistrates’ Court on November 20, facing three charges under the Medical Board Act 29:50 for allegedly posing as a doctor.
Timothy Malchan, 39, was charged with using medical titles while not registered, assuming the title of doctor without registration, and diagnosing human ailments without a licence. He pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Ali and was granted $50,000 own bail. He is scheduled to reappear in court on June 17, 2026.
The charges followed an investigation launched in January 2025 after the Eastern Regional Health Authority reported that Malchan had contacted patients about their confidential medical records and requested payment for “consultations”.
Investigators at the Medical Board of Trinidad and Tobago found that Malchan was not a registered medical practitioner and had no recognised qualifications in cardiovascular disease, thoracic surgery, or cardiothoracic surgery, despite advertising himself in these specialities. He had never been registered with any of the boards under the Council for Professions Related to Medicine.
Further enquiries revealed that Malchan operated an office at the corner of St Joseph and Sanchez Streets, Arima, advertised on social media and the building exterior. Covert operations indicated he performed medical procedures and provided medical advice for fees.
On November 19, 2025, an intelligence-led operation coordinated by the Anti-Corruption Investigations Bureau, with support from senior police officers, executed a search warrant at his office and seized several records. Malchan was then formally charged.
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) urged the public to verify the qualifications and credentials of healthcare providers, remain cautious of fake doctors, and report suspicious activity.
The TTPS said it remains committed to protecting citizens and pursuing individuals who exploit vulnerable persons through fraud or deception.
