Studio City man charged with impersonating doctor, treating thousands without license

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A Studio City man was charged with multiple felonies for allegedly impersonating a doctor and practicing medicine on thousands of patients, including treating people with serious medical conditions such as cancer.

Stephan Gevorkian, 44, faces five felony counts of practicing medicine without a certification, the Los Angeles County district attorney's office said Monday.

"Practicing medicine without a license is not only a criminal activity in California, it can cause irreparable harm to the health of unsuspecting people, some with serious illnesses, who believe they are under the care of a licensed physician," District Attorney George Gascón said.

Gevorkian owns and operates Pathways Medical in North Hollywood. The facility conducts blood tests on patients, advises them, and offers treatment for serious conditions like cancer.

He is accused of practicing medicine without a license on thousands of patients over several years, the DA's office said.

Officials said that an undercover investigator received consulting on Nov. 17, 2022 from Gevorkian.

During that consultation, Gevorkian allegedly failed to accurately address abnormal levels of a hormone that could indicate a serious medical condition.

"The business conducts blood tests on patients, advises them on treatments and offers treatment for serious conditions including cancer and viral infections," officials said. "In the consultation, Gevorkian allegedly failed to accurately address abnormal levels of a hormone that could indicate a serious medical condition."

Gevorkian's attorney, Justin E. Sterling, provided Eyewitness News with a statement: "Criminal charges by their very nature are unproven accusations. It's important to acknowledge that what is thought to be known or understood early on is not always the case in the end. Mr. Gevorkian is complying with all orders of the court and looks forward to vigorously defending himself against these allegations."

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 24.

The DA's office asks anyone who believes they've been a victim in this case to call the Consumer Protection hotline at (213)257-2465.

The Medical Board of California says there are resources available for people who would like to check the credentials of their healthcare professional.

The state Department of Consumer Affairs has a searchable database for medical licenses and other businesses and contractors.

"Licensed physicians have undergone years of education and training by completing medical school and a postgraduate training program," the Medical Board said. "They must also pass examinations that demonstrate their competence to treat patients. The Medical Board of California reviews an application from someone who wishes to become an allopathic physician to ensure that they meet the requirements of the law.

The unlicensed practice of medicine is a serious violation of the public's trust and places patients' lives in danger. California healthcare consumers are encouraged to verify the license of the person offering medical services online."

ABC News contributed to this report.