They found:
- Some clinics were offering surgery that was unnecessary
- Discounts were offered if patients agree to more than one procedure
- Surgeons were often vague about their expertise
- Unqualified "patient co-ordinators" conducting consultations
- Poor standards of medical history taking by many surgeons
- Some surgeons skirting over the potential risks of surgery
- Wrong information being given out by a number of clinics
Action will be taken
Ros Gray, of the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC) set up to regulate private medicine, said that new national standards would help to tackle the problem.
She said: "The NCSC will use its powers to stamp out sloppy practice. Our inspectors have powers to enter a clinic at any time - including unannounced spot checks.
"We also have powers to investigate complaints against clinics and their staff.
"The NCSC will not tolerate the abuse of people who place themselves under the care of others and we will take action against individuals and organisations in order to eradicate poor practice within this sector."
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