Victoria’s health regulator has issued a public warning about a Melbourne woman accused of providing health services without proper registration and offering unapproved treatments.

The Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner has placed an interim prohibition order on Assma Samadi, also known as Sarah Samadi, preventing her from providing health services in Victoria.

The regulator alleges Samadi presented herself as a medical practitioner despite being unregistered and offered treatment to a person with a chronic illness. She is also accused of supplying medications that had not been approved for the treatment and charging more than $20,000 for the services.

Health Complaints Commissioner Bernice Redley said the warning was issued because of concerns about a potential serious risk to the health and safety of members of the public.

The commissioner has urged people not to engage Samadi for health services and encouraged anyone with information or concerns to contact the watchdog.

The warning follows a police investigation that began after authorities executed search warrants in Melbourne’s Bayside area.

Police allege officers discovered cocaine and significant quantities of prescription medicines, including testosterone, anabolic steroids, painkillers and human growth hormone.

Samadi was charged in July with offences including trafficking steroids, possessing drugs and common assault. She was granted bail and is due to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates Court on October 19.

A 39-year-old Brighton East man was also charged in connection with the police investigation. He faces several drug-related charges and was granted bail to appear in court on the same date.

The health regulator’s intervention highlights the risks consumers can face when seeking medical treatment from people who may not have the appropriate professional registration or qualifications.

Authorities are reminding the public to check the credentials of anyone offering medical or health services, particularly when treatments involve prescription medicines or claims outside conventional medical care.

The allegations against Samadi and the other accused have not been proven in court.

The Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner says members of the public with concerns about the alleged activities should contact the regulator.