Rouen Orthodontist Indicted for €2.5 Million Fraud, Suspended from Practice
A Rouen-based orthodontist faces criminal charges and a five-month suspension after authorities uncovered a suspected fraud scheme totaling up to €2.5 million. The case highlights growing concerns over financial irregularities within the French healthcare system.
The investigation began in the first half of 2025 when the Primary Health Insurance Fund (CPAM) flagged a series of suspicious reimbursement requests originating from the orthodontist’s practice. Over a three-year period, these reimbursements totaled €1.7 million, prompting the CPAM to contact the Rouen public prosecutor’s office.
Following an investigation into potential fraud against health insurance funds and illegal practice, the surgeon was arrested on January 28, 2026. A subsequent search of her home revealed a significant cache of assets, including €250,000 in cash, €100,000 in various items, and €850,000 held in bank accounts. These findings led to her indictment on January 30, 2026, on charges of fraud and misuse of corporate assets.
Investigators noted the orthodontist had amassed a client base of approximately 4,500 patients – a figure significantly higher than that of her colleagues, despite operating as a solo practitioner. This unusually high patient volume raised further questions about the efficiency and legitimacy of her practice.
The Normandy Regional Health Agency (ARS) acted swiftly, suspending the professional’s license on February 4. According to the ARS, the suspension, lasting for a period of five months, was enacted under Article L. 4113-14 of the public health code. This article allows for immediate suspension when a healthcare professional’s continued practice poses a “serious danger” to patients.
“This decision was taken as a precautionary measure,” a senior official stated, “pending an ordinal disciplinary decision.” The suspension is intended to protect patients while a full investigation and disciplinary process unfolds.
The orthodontist is scheduled to appear before the Rouen criminal court on June 5. The CPAM currently estimates the total financial damage caused by the alleged fraud to be up to €2.5 million. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust oversight and vigilance within the healthcare sector to safeguard public funds and patient well-being.
