How to check that a health professional has a valid registration
Before an appointment or procedure, confirming registration with the professional board is a simple step that protects you.
Short answer: to check whether a health professional has a valid registration, search for the name or registration number on the website of the professional board for that field (for example medicine, dentistry, psychology, nursing, nutrition or physiotherapy) and verify the status, the registered specialty and any restrictions. The names of these bodies vary between countries. This text is general and names no professionals.
Why check
Registration shows that the person was qualified to practice the profession and is subject to the board's oversight. It does not guarantee quality or results, but it helps avoid the unlicensed practice of the profession, which is a real risk.
Step by step
- Ask for the full name and registration number, which usually appear on prescriptions, cards, websites and signs.
- Identify the correct board. Each field has its own, and many have regional divisions.
- Use the board's public lookup, on the official website, entering the name or number. Type the address into the browser rather than using links received by message.
- Check the data. Does the name match? Is the status active or in good standing? Does the region match the place of care?
- Verify the specialty. Some areas require specific specialist registration. A title mentioned in advertising must be backed by the registration.
- Look at the place of care. Clinics and services usually also have a registration or health license.
Warning signs
- Refusal to give a full name or registration number.
- Promises of guaranteed cure, quick results or a "secret method".
- Pressure to decide on the spot or to pay in advance for long packages.
- Prescribing medicines or procedures without an assessment.
- A social media profile that uses titles that do not appear in the registration.
Telemedicine and online services
The same applies to remote care. Check the registration and the platform before sharing health data.
What to do if in doubt
If you cannot find the registration or notice an irregularity, do not go ahead with the care and contact the professional board or the consumer protection body for guidance and to report it.
Counterpoints
A valid registration does not replace your own judgment of the professional's communication, clarity and trustworthiness. If something seems wrong, seek a second opinion.