The lawyer for a 54-year-old who allegedly stole the identity of an overseas psychiatrist to work at Waikato's DHB, insists his client is not a "bogus" doctor and has a degree in Psychiatry.
Mohamed Shakeel Siddiqui is accused of using the credentials of an Illinois psychiatrist to secure a job with the crisis team at Waikato's mental health service.
He had previously visited NZ and thought it would be a good place to work.
He saw at least 75 patients in the six months he was working, before colleagues became suspicious in July.
His lawyer Kerry Burroughs told the court today for four months his client "exceeded standards" in his work.
It was only when Mr Siddiqui outlined safety concerns about an acute patient that relations with the DHB turned sour.
Mohamed Siddiqui is now facing charges of obtaining a pecuniary advantage by deception.
The "other" Mohamed Siddiqui, whose credentials he allegedly used has been made aware of the case but couldn't be reached for comment.
His lawyer Kerry Burroughs told the court his client "is who he says he is, and his qualifications are his own- the issue the police have is that the practising certificate from the state of Illinois is not his."
Police prosecutors further opposed bail today saying he was a flight risk.
Judge Tompkins however granted bail with a 7pm to 7am curfew until he next appears on August 31.
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