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The Board's Mission

The mission of the Medical Board of Californians to protect health care consumers through the proper licensing and regulation of physicians and surgeons and certain allied health care professionals and through the vigorous, objective enforcement of the Medical Practice Act, and to promote access to quality medical care through the Board's licensing and regulatory functions.

Need a Speaker?

If you would like a speaker from the Medical Board of California to address your organization, please contact Public Affairs Manager Carlos Villatoro at: Carlos.Villatoro@mbc.ca.gov

Editor's Spotlight

By Emmalee Ross

As Fall comes to an end and the seasons change, quite a few changes are happening at the Medical Board of California (Board) as well.

In November 2020, we said goodbye to Board President Denise Pines, who served on the Board since 2012, and as president since 2018. President Pines was a fearless leader, always showing fairness, wisdom, and compassion. She shares her thoughts and reflections over the years in her own words.

The Board also welcomed Kristina Daniel Lawson as its newest president during the November 2020 Board Meeting. Lawson was originally appointed to the Board by Gov. Edmund G. Brown Jr. in 2015, and we look forward to her continued guidance now as president.

Another change coming January 1, 2021, is the rules regarding controlled substance prescription pads with the passing of AB 149. Learn how this law might affect you.

Lastly, the Board's Executive Director William Prasifka, shares news and potential increases to the Board's licensing fees.

As we look forward to 2021, COVID-19 lingers on. Drs. Wendy Pavlovich and Pradeep Gidwani share insight on how COVID-19 uniquely effects those experiencing adverse childhood trauma. Read about the amazing work they and their colleagues are doing in order to combat adverse childhood experiences.

Happy Holidays,

Emmalee

President's Message: Reflecting on My Time with the Board

By Denise Pines

I joined the Medical Board of California (Board) in 2012, and over the intervening years, I have had the privilege of working with tremendously dedicated staff and Board members. I thank them all for their efforts in serving our mission of healthcare consumer protection.

Wrapping up my third term as president, I reflect on all that we've faced and achieved, as well as the issues we continue to address. Shortly after I joined the Board, we began to deal with the realities of skyrocketing abuse of prescription-opioid medications and the resulting national health crisis. In November 2020, we finished this last term managing and planning for the impact of COVID-19. In between, the Board accomplished a lot, and I'd like to take this moment to shine the spotlight on some of our achievements.

• In 2013, we were the first board to use teleconferencing to address consumer access during all board meetings.
• The Board dramatically improved its website - named the number one most user-friendly site by Consumer Reports.
• With the introduction of the Medical Board of California app, the Board became the only state medical board with its own licensing notification app.
• The Board launched the Check Up on Your Doctor's License campaign.
• The Board introduced Patient Advocate interested parties meetings, giving health care consumers the opportunity to voice their concerns.
• Each spring, Board members and Board leadership attend Legislative Day at the state capitol to educate legislators about the Board and its processes and mission.

The Patient's Right to Know Act of 2018 (SB 1448), which took effect in 2019, was one of the most important pieces of legislation during my term. The bill requires physicians, who are placed on probation for certain offenses, to notify patients of their probationary statuses. Along with the other work listed above, this act helped the Board greatly improve its communications and transparency.

I am also quite proud of how the Board responded when, in 2017, it received the Demographics of Disciplinary Action by the Medical Board of California for the years of 2003 to 2013 - an observational report conducted by the California Research Bureau that revealed racial disparities in the enforcement process. The Board immediately responded by convening a task force to conduct a review of existing complaint, investigation, and disciplinary processes; make recommendations to improve Board processes; and engage relevant policymakers to ensure the Board had adequate funding and legislative support for the recommended changes.

The Board mandated implicit bias training for Board staff, members, investigators, attorneys at the Attorney General's Office, and the judges that preside over our cases. This training program, as well as an ongoing examination of areas of concern, continue under the new Board's direction.

Leaving a group of people that I have consider my friends will not be easy, but knowing the Board will remain with caring, thoughtful, and dedicated Board members puts my mind at ease and gives me hope for the Board's future.

Speaking of the new Board, it is my pleasure to introduce Alejandra Campoverdi, a nationally recognized women's health advocate and former Obama White House official, and the newest Board member under the leadership of the incoming Board president, Kristina Daniel Lawson. I know I am leaving you in good hands.

As always, I wish you good health.

Denise Pines

Adverse Childhood Experiences: Breaking the Cycle in a Time of COVID-19

By Emmalee Ross

She was afraid to go to sleep. Nightmares terrorized the 10-year-old girl. Sleepovers and summer camps were out of the question due to safety issues surrounding her constant sleepwalking.

"Has anything scary or frightening happened to you?" Dr. Wendy Pavlovich asked when the mom brought her daughter in for an appointment to address the sleepwalking.

The mom revealed she had been a victim of domestic violence, and her daughter witnessed the abuse from birth until she was five years old.

Due to her background and training in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), Dr. Pavlovich referred both mother and daughter to therapy services. Over time, the sleepwalking and nightmares dissipated, and the little girl was able to go to camp.

"What I see in my practice are parents doing the best they can with what they have and what their past experiences have been," says Pavlovich, a general pediatrician and the ACEs committee co-chair for the American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3 (AAP-CA3). "There's a lot of immediate work that can be done once we have this information about the family."

This is just one example of how a child's life changed because a knowledgeable, caring physician asked questions, recognized the signs, and dug deeper into what some might feel as taboo.

"It's a subject that polite people don't talk about - we're actually elevating the conversation," says Dr. Pradeep Gidwani, a pediatrician by training, past president of the AAP-CA3, and the current medical director for Healthy Development Services and First Steps. "In medicine we're taught to build the relationship with the patient and then ask about the trauma. Well sometimes, if you ask families about the trauma, it's actually a way to build relationships and trust."

The term adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, originated from the research of Dr. Robert Anda and Dr. Vincent Felitti in a 1998 groundbreaking study to include three major categories: abuse, neglect, and household challenges.

In a 2014 TEDMED talk, California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris breaks down the ACEs study and explains adverse childhood experiences as threats that are so severe or pervasive they change our physiology.

These threats include physical, emotional or sexual abuse, physical or emotional neglect, parental mental illness, substance dependence, incarceration, parental separation or divorce, or domestic violence.

The 1998 ACEs study found that 67 percent of the population had at least one ACE, and one in eight Americans had four or more. A second aspect of the study correlated high ACE scores with high risks for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hepatitis, depression, suicidality, lung cancer, and ischemic heart disease - the number one killer in the United States.

In the TEDMED talk, Dr. Burke Harris explains how the body's stress response system, that governs our flight or fight response, affects children's developing brains and bodies.

She gives an example of walking through a forest and coming across a bear; your brain would signal your body to release stress hormones, causing your heart to pound, pupils to dilate, and airways to open - you are ready to fight or run.

"That is wonderful if you're in a forest and there's a bear," says Burke Harris. "The problem is what happens when the bear comes home every night and this system is activated over, and over, and over again, and it goes from being adaptive or life-saving, to maladaptive or health-damaging."

According to Burke Harris, high doses of adversity in children affect their brain structure and function, developing immune system, developing hormonal systems and the way their DNA is read and transcribed.

"When we understand the mechanism of a disease, when we know not only which pathways are disrupted, but how, as doctors, it is our job to use this science for prevention and treatment," says Burke Harris. "That's what we do."

That is exactly why Pavlovich and Gidwani are involved in the work they're doing - especially when it's needed in the midst of a global pandemic.

"What I'm seeing now is the increased risk of material needs being unmet," says Pavlovich. "Like food, worrying about rent, more injuries and accidents, worsening anxiety and depression, and grief reactions."

Pavlovich explains that COVID-19 is a collective trauma, unlike a discreet traumatic stress event such as an earthquake or wildfire that disappears. With COVID-19, there is no end in sight - challenging safe, stable, and nurturing routines.

"I'm definitely seeing parents with mental health crisis," says Pavlovich. "They had anxiety and it was controlled, now it's out of control…so I'm either hearing and seeing them a lot, or not at all."

Since COVID-19 has severely affected healing and coping mechanisms like face-to-face developmental services, speech services, and occupational therapy, Pavlovich worries about a new wave of childhood adverse experiences generated during quarantine, as recent statistics show an increase in domestic violence hotline phone calls, and the rise of substance abuse.

"A lot of what we know that can help people be resilient is hindered at this moment," says Pavlovich. "That's one of the big challenges related to COVID-19 in this work."

In the midst of coronavirus, the AAP-CA3 announced a collaboration of ACEs Initiative grantees assisting San Diego Medi-Cal providers to screen and treat ACEs and toxic stress.

The AAP-CA3 press release calls it a "first-of-its-kind effort" led by the Office of the California Surgeon General and the Department of Health Care Services to provide training and screening resources while addressing the stress and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

One challenge both Pavlovich and Gidwani are working to overcome utilizing the ACEs Initiative is the isolation of conversations among community partners, schools, behavioral health professionals, developmental professionals, and medical professionals.

"I think it's bringing that conversation together - it's helping us speak the same language," says Pavlovich. "Physicians, by nature, like to diagnose and fix. Unfortunately, ACEs and resiliency are things we can identify, support, enhance, educate, and nurture, but it's not an immediate fix."

Both Pavlovich and Gidwani view the ACEs Initiative as more than a simple solution or a one size fits all treatment - it is something much larger.

"We're in the midst of a movement, which is talking about cultural change," says Gidwani, who views the community as his patient. "We love to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma."

In California, 17 percent of adults have had four or more ACEs. Intergenerational trauma occurs when adults bring their own trauma into their parenting - increasing the risk for their children to have developmental issues. Those children will eventually pass some of those adversities onto their own children, and so the cycle goes.

"We had this family come in for developmental services - a little boy whose uncle wanted to adopt him because he had been bounced around from place to place," said Gidwani. "His aunt wasn't as excited, and our provider saw there was something going on with this relationship."

The aunt continued to show up for services, building trust with the provider. Through therapeutic work, the provider discovered the aunt also had experienced trauma previously, and was able to treat her as well.

"Her parenting style was impacted by her experiences," says Gidwani. "We were able to see that change, and now, this aunt is a more effective parent. We look for family strengths and help them build skills to be their best."

Upfront work and investment, education, training, and about three extra minutes per appointment when physicians include an ACEs screener - a list of specific questions integrated into the appointment - this is what it takes to confront adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress, with the potential to break generations of trauma.

"California is unique because Governor Newsom wanted to make this a priority," says Pavlovich. "For this reason, we are the only state that has a Medicaid payment incentive that I'm aware of."

According to Pavlovich, many practices incorporating the ACEs screener for adults and children have found that it does not hinder workflow. In fact, physicians have found it allows them to be more efficient since there is no longer a barrier of communication and misunderstanding between doctor and patient, enhancing their care and relationship.

"Anytime you introduce a new screener or new workload, there's going to be upfront investment," says Pavlovich who believes incorporating trauma informed care is part of a physician's mission. "In different ways, we're doing this work already and we're dealing with the aftermath of these questions already."

Gidwani says the approach to treating trauma is thinking about it from multiple levels, taking into account the families' readiness and capacity for change.

"There's something really powerful about helping a parent be the protective shield for their child," says Gidwani. "The parent heals and the child heals - it's amazing to see."

Gidwani hopes that one day physicians will screen for childhood adversities like any other vital sign, just another thing to check - and he has good news about ACEs.

"The truth of the matter is childhood adversity is not destiny," says Gidwani. "Healing and resiliency develop in the context of relationship."

Gidwani is almost giddy with excitement for the personal, familial, and community healing that can happen when trauma is addressed.

"Think of all the creative genius that is out there not being expressed because of some kind of event earlier in your life," says Gidwani.

While the actual ACEs screening is the tool used to uncover and address childhood adversities, Pavlovich says the most important part is the process.

"We're human, and if we're being nice, polite, and respectful, you don't ask those questions," says Pavlovich, explaining that the ACEs grant is providing consistent training across the board. "The ‘how' is more important - open dialogue, helping physicians come up with their own voice, acknowledging the whole family, talking to the child…it's a lot less scary than the questions we usually feel comfortable asking."

Gidwani and Pavlovich have dedicated their life's work to the goals of reducing chronic illness, improving the quality of life for their patients, better serving the needs of their community, and assisting other physicians in doing the same - especially in these desperate times of COVID-19.

"If we can help people acknowledge the trauma and move forward, the unlimited potential that we see in people is amazing," says Gidwani. "I think we can change the paradigm to really create a cultural shift that has such a huge impact on our society."

For information on ACEs, screening tools, and certification and payment, visit acesaware.org.

MBC Elects New Board President

By Carlos Villatoro, Public Information Manager

The Medical Board of California (Board) elected Kristina Daniel Lawson as Board President during its quarterly meeting held November 12-13 via WebEx teleconference.

First appointed to the Board by Gov. Edmund G. Brown Jr., in October 2015, and re-appointed by Gov. Brown in 2018, Lawson has held various roles within the Board and currently serves as chair of both the Application Review & Special Programs Committee and Panel B, which is one of two panels that considers disciplinary action against Board licensees. She is also a member of the Board's Prescribing Task Force and Executive Committee.

"It's an honor and privilege to serve California as the president of the Medical Board of California and I look forward to working with both my colleagues on the Board and with the Medical Board's staff to further the Board's mission and ensure California's health care consumers are protected and have access to high quality health care," Lawson said.

Lawson is the Managing Partner-elect at Hanson Bridgett LLP, where she practices land use and environmental law. She was a member of the Walnut Creek City Council from 2010 to 2014, and served as Walnut Creek's Mayor in 2014.

The Board also elected Dr. Howard Krauss, M.D., as its new Vice President and Dr. Randy Hawkins, M.D., as its Secretary, during its November meeting.

Reminder: Rules Regarding Controlled Substance Prescriptions Soon Changing

The Medical Board of California would like to remind prescribers of changes that take effect January 1, 2021, regarding prescription pads and CURES reporting requirements.

By Carlos Villatoro, Public Information Manager

As noted in the Board's recently updated CURES webpage, and an October 2, 2020 email announcement to prescribers, physicians and surgeons need to ensure their prescription pads have a newly required 12-character serial number - one of 15 security features required on prescription pads by 2021 - compliant with Assembly Bill (AB) 149. Come January 1, 2021, any prescription form that does not contain all 15 of the required security features will not be valid, and pharmacies will reject the prescriptions.

The Board urges prescribers to obtain the compliant prescription pads well in advance of the January 1, 2021, deadline, from Security Prescription Printers pre-approved by the Department of Justice.

Keep in mind that process and delivery times may vary with more physicians placing orders toward the end of the year, which could result in your patients not receiving their medications in a timely manner.

Prescriptions issued electronically are not subject to the security features related to paper forms and if you are currently submitting prescriptions electronically, the Board recommends you to continue doing so.

The Board would also like to note that beginning January 1, 2022, all prescriptions must be submitted electronically pursuant to AB 2789. In the coming months, the Board plans to post further information regarding this requirement on its website.

The other major law change - AB 528 which takes effect January 1, 2021 - shortens the timeframe in which dispensers must report dispensed prescriptions to the Controlled Substance Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES).

Dispensers will no longer have seven days to report dispensed prescriptions to CURES and must report the dispensed prescription within one business day. The law also adds Schedule V drugs to CURES.

Aside from the aforementioned reporting requirements - effective July 1, 2021 - AB 528 allows delegates to access information in CURES and allows a prescriber to check information obtained from the CURES database to meet existing mandates, instead of requiring the prescriber to check the CURES database.

For more information on CURES and prescription pad requirements, visit the Board's CURES webpage.

Increased Licensing Fees Necessary to Strengthen Consumer Protection Efforts

By William Prasifka, Executive Director

As the state authority that licenses and regulates physicians and surgeons, and certain allied health professions, the financial sustainability and independence of the Medical Board of California (Board) is critical to its success. Without adequate resources, the Board's mission to protect consumers through its licensing and enforcement functions will be placed at great risk.

Due to rising expenditures - and the lack of revenue to match - the Board is operating at a deficit and currently on a pathway toward insolvency as it draws down its reserve fund. The Board is working to reduce its costs, including finding new efficiencies in its licensure and disciplinary processes, however, the Board requires a substantial fee increase to balance its budget, as it is funded entirely by applicant and licensee fees.

To independently evaluate its financial position, and determine the fee amounts necessary to meet its costs and rebuild a prudent reserve, the Board contracted with an outside organization to conduct a fee study. This study concluded that the Board's fund is structurally imbalanced and recommended increasing its various fees between 20 and 50 percent. Although some Board fees are still at their original levels, the initial license and renewal fees for physicians has not increased since 2006.

The Board agrees with the study's findings and will next year seek the approval of the Legislature and Governor to establish increased fee amounts. The Board understands that these are substantial increases, but additional revenue is necessary to ensure the Board is able to continue in its consumer protection mission.

The proposed fee increases, along with other Board-requested law changes, will be considered next year during a once-every-four-year evaluation by the Legislature, known as Sunset Review.

The Board will provide updates in future newsletter issues on this important matter.

Consumer Corner: Why Did My Doctor Leave Me?

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

I loved my doctor.

He was my physician since I transferred from pediatrics to adult care and my mother could no longer call to make my appointments. Phone phobia, it's a real thing.

Dr. Lee was kind, understanding, always listened to my concerns, and responded to my emails quickly.

One day I received an email from Dr. Lee's office - he was no longer my physician. He was moving to a new location and transferred me to a doctor he thought I would like.

I didn't. Thankfully, a patient has the right to choose their physician, and so I chose another.

Just as a patient has the right to choose their physician, a physician also has a right to determine whom to accept as a patient.

Though sometimes it may seem rude, unfair, and some have asked if it was illegal, physicians can refuse to treat current patients. However, physicians should follow the California Medical Association (CMA) guidelines in regard to terminating the doctor/patient relationship.

The CMA guidelines specify that a physician must notify the patient in writing informing them of the last day the physician will provide care, arrange alternative sources of medical care, including a referral to another physician, and offer information necessary to obtain the patient's medical records, like Dr. Lee did for me.

From fiscal years 2017 to 2020, the Medical Board of California (Board) has received 763 complaints regarding patient abandonment allegations, which is considered unprofessional conduct. If you feel like you have been wrongly abandoned by your physician, you can file a complaint with the Board as it thoroughly investigates all complaints.

To learn more about how your physician should handle termination of care, please visit our General Office Practices/Protocols FAQ, and our Terminating/Severing Physician/Patient Relationship webpage.

If you have further questions about patient abandonment, please call the Board at 800-633-2322 or send an email to webmaster@mbc.ca.gov.

Caring for the Ageing: Dr. Anna Chodos, Steven M. Thompson Loan Repayment Recipient

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

Anna Chodos, M.D., M.P.H., was a young girl when her grandfather had a few strokes causing him to become disabled and subsequently develop dementia.

After his strokes, she recalls visiting him in a nursing facility where he was well cared for and loved.

"I have a specific memory of one of his caregivers who would really primp and preen my grandfather, making him look amazing and smell great," says Chodos, now board-certified in geriatrics and internal medicine. "My grandmother visited him every day, they were a tight couple, I'm sure it made a huge difference to her."

Watching her grandfather receive such meticulous attention was incredibly meaningful and impactful to a young Chodos.

"That's what he deserved and we were very lucky, I can't say we were the norm," says Chodos who has dedicated her career to improving the lives of the aging San Francisco population. "Shouldn't everybody who needs that much hands-on care be cared for that lovingly?"

An associate professor of geriatrics and general internal medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Chodos is also the medical director of Whole Person Geriatrics at the San Francisco Health Network.

Chodos labels "whole care" as a buzz term meaning holistic care and integration of care for social determinates of health, behavioral health needs, and medical health needs. Simply put, it is the idea that all of those needs require geriatrics knowledge and expertise as there is a massive, ageing population being overlooked.

"We are transitioning to an older society, older than human society has ever been as far as we know," says Chodos, explaining that one in five San Franciscans is over the age of 60. "That has implications for health care, you need to think of the particular needs of the population."

Having worked with the urban, underserved population throughout her training, academic, clinical, and now professional career, Chodos has a front-row seat to the problems at hand.

"The two big issues in geriatric medicine are we do not have enough providers, and we have a massive population to serve," says Chodos.

She explains that due to this reason, many older folks become integrated into primary care since there are not enough geriatricians to serve the population - which is puzzling to Chodos.

"This keeps us all up at night," she says about the lack of interest in geriatrics. "It is strange because it doesn't match the trends, needs, or even the way health care gets funded in this country - most older adults use way more health care than younger people."

According to Chodos, a lack of exposure to geriatrics creates a self-fulfilling problem. She explains there are not a lot of trainees who see geriatrics, so they don't think about it as an option, and often, medical school curriculum doesn't incorporate geriatrics.

"It's not the world's sexiest specialty, as things go," says Chodos. "I wouldn't agree with that whatsoever, I think it's absolutely fabulous and extremely rewarding."

From an early age, Chodos knew she wanted to go into medicine. Her mother - also a passionate physician and advocate - had a large impact on Chodos as a child, as well as a family member and caregiver who worked as a nurse assisting older adults.

"She had a way of talking about her patients and understood what they were going through," says Chodos about her family caregiver. "She was a deeply empathetic person and a role model for me."

After college, Chodos took a few years off to work in a research lab before attending Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health. Chodos completed her primary care residency at UCSF-Zuckerberg San Francisco General, where she fell in love with the population, environment, and assisting underserved people receive better health care. Upon completing her primary care fellowship, Chodos also completed a geriatrics clinical and research fellowship at UCSF.

"The (geriatrics) research overlapped with quality improvement, health systems improvement, and dabbling in higher level thinking of evaluating clinical programs," says Chodos. "Things like implementation science and ways to know whether what you're doing really has an impact."

As of late, however, Chodos has been a subject matter expert for nursing homes during the COVID-19 outbreaks, responding to community and educational needs specifically in senior apartment buildings and assisted living.

"That's actually been really gratifying," says Chodos. "It's completely derailed everything else in my life, but watching the response and the resources going into it - and the brain power and passion - we're so lucky to work in an area where people are appreciative of public health guidance and measures we have to take."

Chodos explains her role is to organize communicable disease control around COVID-19, educating peers on what a nursing home is, who lives there, and who works there - bringing out an informed perspective.

In 2016, Chodos received the Steven M. Thompson Loan Repayment Program grant - a program created to increase health care access in medically underserved areas of California - allowing her to choose the career path she loved, and continue working with a population that was near and dear to her heart.

"It took the heat off not seeing a future in this path," says Chodos. "You don't have a lot of earning potential frankly in these positions because they are what they are. It made me feel like I didn't have to make a choice I didn't want to."

When asked if she has any future aspirations, Chodos smiles and says "A million!"

Within the million, she wants to make the programs she's directing and involved with really work. Chodos shares a passion with other geriatric trailblazers, innovators, and program builders regarding dementia care and the overlap with behavioral health for diverse populations, and for people with many social determinates of health.

One project she is currently working on, which has become sort of a hobby during quarantine, is connecting with community groups in San Francisco to collect profiles and stories of people who are 80 and older. Her hope is to make people aware of not only ageing, but also the diversity of older adults and all they are doing in their communities.

"Those," she says, "are my future aspirations and definitely what I want to spend another ten years doing."

As for aspiring medical students, Chodos encourages them to make an effort and see geriatrics and how extremely rewarding it is to practice.

"It's not just about people's careers, which will be untold fabulousness ahead, but we'll all be in a world we'd rather live in," says Chodos. "It's a great opportunity to bring dignity and respect to an underserved population. We should all be fixing it as soon as possible, because it's not going to get better without your help."

New Law Allows Pharmacists to Provide COVID-19 Vaccine When Available

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

A new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 24, 2020, allows California pharmacists, beginning January 1, 2021, to independently initiate and administer federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved COVID-19 vaccines, when available.

While there is currently no FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine as of the publishing of this article, Assembly Bill (AB) 1710 preemptively lays the groundwork for pharmacists to support the effort to quickly distribute one to Californians.

Before a pharmacist may independently initiate and administer any vaccine, they must meet the requirements of Business and Professions Code Section 4052.8, including the following:

• Complete an immunization training program endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
• Be certified in basic life support.
• Comply with all state and federal recordkeeping and reporting requirements.

For more information on AB 1710, please visit the California Legislative Information Webpage.

You Asked for It

By Alexandria Schembra, Public Information Analyst

I already own prescription pads with a serial number on it. Do I need to order new pads?

Please take the time to double check your prescription pads to ensure they meet the requirements of Assembly Bill (AB) 149, including the 15 required security elements. If they do, then your pads are compliant and there is no need to order new prescription pads.

I already prescribe electronically. Does this new law apply to me?

Prescriptions issued electronically are not subject to the security features related to paper forms and if you are currently submitting prescriptions electronically, the Board recommends you continue doing so. The Board would also like to remind you that by January 1, 2022, all prescriptions must be submitted electronically, with a few exemptions, pursuant to Assembly Bill 2789 of 2018.

You may wish to consider having some paper prescription forms in the office that are compliant with AB 149, should there be a technological impediment that prevents you from submitting the prescription electronically, or if another exception applies.

Where can I order compliant prescription pads?

State law requires California Security Prescription Forms to be produced by printers licensed by the California Department of Justice. The Department of Justice has provided an approved list of security prescription printers.

Changes to Medical Exemption Laws for Required School Vaccinations Take Effect January 1, 2021

By Carlos Villatoro, Public Information Manager

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is preparing to implement a pair of laws (SB 276/SB 714) that are intended to help ensure that medical exemptions for required school vaccinations are provided under appropriate circumstances.

Starting January 1, 2021, if a parent or guardian requests a medical exemption for their child, state law requires a physician to inform the parent/guardian of the requirements of Health and Safety Code section 120372, examine the child, and submit a completed exemption certification form to CDPH.

CDPH is putting the finishing touches on a standardized, statewide electronic form that physicians shall use when issuing a medical exemption. The system, dubbed CAIR-ME, is expected to launch on January 1, 2021, and will generate a document that the physician prints and provides to the parent or guardian. In the coming weeks, the Board will be sending a notice to licensees with the appropriate link and further information about CAIR-ME.

Further, no later than January 1, 2021, CDPH will begin to monitor patterns of exemption form submissions consistent with the requirements of Health and Safety Code section 120372, including those from physicians who issue five or more in a calendar year. CDPH shall identify exemptions that do not meet applicable Centers for Disease Control, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or the American Academy of Pediatrics criteria. CDPH may contact the issuing physician for more information to support an exemption. The law allows the State Public Health Officer to revoke an inappropriate or invalid medical exemption.

Also, under this law, CDPH is unable to accept a medical exemption form from a physician who has a pending accusation from the Board or is on probation for a disciplinary matter related to immunization standards of care.

For more information, please search for SB 276 and SB 714 on the California Legislative Information website.

Liability Insurance Reminder

The Medical Board of California (Board) would like to remind physicians that while they are not required to carry malpractice insurance, they must carry liability insurance if they perform a surgery at an outpatient surgery setting according to Business and Professions Code (BPC) section 2216.2:

"It is unprofessional conduct for a physician and surgeon to fail to provide adequate security by liability insurance, or by participation in an interindemnity trust, for claims by patients arising out of surgical procedures performed outside of a general acute care hospital as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code." (BPC Section 2216.2(a))

The Board urges physicians who perform surgeries within outpatient surgery settings to check with their current insurance provider to ensure they have the appropriate liability insurance.

Physicians must also follow the reporting requirements cited in BPC section 801.01 regarding lawsuit settlements and arbitration awards. For more information, please visit the Board's FAQ - Medical Malpractice Reporting webpage.

Administrative Actions: May 1, 2020 - July 31, 2020 Physicians and Surgeons

AMBATI, NARAYANA SIRMAN, M.D. (C 41681), Fresno, CA

No admissions but charged with unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete an education course, an ethics course, and professional boundaries program; and submit to a psychiatric evaluation. Public Reprimand. June 17, 2020 View the decision and the order for AMBATI, NARAYANA SIRMAN, M.D. (C 41681) on the Board's website.

AMIN, JAY, M.D. (A 40490), Orange, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of three patients; violated professional confidence, failed to comply with mandated reporting requirements, and violated statutes regulating dangerous drugs. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, ethics course, prescribing practices course, and medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from providing treatment for chronic pain; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 6, 2020. View the decision and the order for AMIN, JAY, M.D. (A 40490) on the Board's website.

ANNABLE, JOHN WILLIAM, M.D. (C 30935), Redondo Beach, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence, prescribed to an addict, prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, excessively prescribed dangerous/addictive drugs, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on two years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a prescribing practices course and medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 6, 2020. View the decision and the order for ANNABLE, JOHN WILLIAM, M.D. (C 30935) on the Board's website.

ARNAZZI, HECTOR HERNANDEZ, M.D. (G 40005), Torrance, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, restrictions on use of anesthesia; failed to provide adequate security by liability insurance; and performed an elective cosmetic procedure without an appropriate physical examination and written clearance for the procedure, in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, a 360 day suspension that begins 6/20/2020 until 6/15/2021; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from performing any out-patient surgical procedures at any office or facility that is not accredited; maintain malpractice liability coverage; completing a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 4, 2020. View the decision and the order for ARNAZZI, HECTOR HERNANDEZ, M.D. (G 40005) on the Board's website.

BANEZ, EDGAR CORRALES, M.D. (A 52430), Los Angeles, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and incompetence in the care and treatment of five patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances and from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana until successful completion of the clinical competence assessment program; maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for BANEZ, EDGAR CORRALES, M.D. (A 52430) on the Board's website.

BENITEZ, CESAR, M.D. (A 107600), El Cajon, CA

Admitted to using alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public, and convicted of one misdemeanor count of battery. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing an education course and an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for BENITEZ, CESAR, M.D. (A 107600) on the Board's website.

BERNARDI, MARK THOMAS, M.D. (A 168873), Las Vegas, NV

No admissions but charged with unprofessional conduct and dishonest or corrupt acts for knowingly omitting a material fact on his licensing application. Physician must complete an ethics course. Public Reprimand. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for BERNARDI, MARK THOMAS, M.D. (A 168873) on the Board's website.

BIETZ, DUANE S. (G 15897), Portland, OR

Physician has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. July 20, 2020. View the decision and the order for View the decision and the order for BIETZ, DUANE S. (G 15897) on the Board's website.

BRADLEY, STEPHEN PETER, M.D. (C 41489), Lakeport, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of two patients; repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of three patients; and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 5, 2020. View the decision and the order for BRADLEY, STEPHEN PETER, M.D. (C 41489) on the Board's website.

BRAMSON, WALTER DAVID, M.D. (G 40647), Crestline, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of five patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a prescribing practices course and medical record keeping course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for BRAMSON, WALTER DAVID, M.D. (G 40647) on the Board's website.

BROWN, MICHAEL WILLIAM, M.D. (A 68271), Fair Oaks, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of three patients; repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of four patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 26, 2020. View the decision and the order for BROWN, MICHAEL WILLIAM, M.D. (A 68271) on the Board's website.

CASTILLO, MARLON FIDEL, M.D. (A 93971), Encino, CA

Admitted to failing to comply with terms of his Board-ordered probation due to non-practice exceeding two years. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants. July 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for CASTILLO, MARLON FIDEL, M.D. (A 93971) on the Board's website.

CHAVEZ, MARCO ANTONIO (A 115932), San Diego, CA

Charged with using alcohol in such a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; convicted on one felony count of Health Care Fraud; failed to timely report a change of address to the Board; gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; excessively prescribed controlled substances and prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of two patients; and practiced under the influence of alcohol. Revoked. July 23, 2020. View the decision and the order for CHAVEZ, MARCO ANTONIO (A 115932) on the Board's website.

CHEEMA, CHANDAN DEEP SINGH, M.D. (A 47747), Fair Oaks, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and excessively prescribed controlled substances in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete a prescribing practices course and medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. June 26, 2020. View the decision and the order for CHEEMA, CHANDAN DEEP SINGH, M.D. (A 47747) on the Board's website.

CHHIENG, CHIVANO (A 71847), Tamuning, Guam

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of another patient; and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of three patients. Surrender of License. July 14, 2020. View the decision and the order for CHHIENG, CHIVANO (A 71847) on the Board's website.

CHOPRA, SAWTANTRA KUMAR (A 29771), Modesto, CA

Admitted to repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of four patients; incompetence and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient; and failed to comply with an order for examination. Surrender of License. July 20, 2020. View the decision and the order for CHOPRA, SAWTANTRA KUMAR (A 29771) on the Board's website.

CLEMENTS, MICHAEL PAUL, M.D. (G 41562), Ruidoso, NM

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by New Mexico for negligence, controlled substance violations, and failure to maintain adequate medical records. June 5, 2020. View the decision and the order for CLEMENTS, MICHAEL PAUL, M.D. (G 41562) on the Board's website.

CLUFF, ROBERT STEPHEN, M.D. (G 80592), Antioch, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and incompetence in the care and treatment of one patient; and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of four patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a prescribing practices course, an ethics course, and medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 8, 2020. View the decision and the order for CLUFF, ROBERT STEPHEN, M.D. (G 80592) on the Board's website.

CORTES, ARIEL ALEXANDER (A 63637), San Diego, CA

Charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of five patients; repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of six patients; excessively prescribed controlled substances and prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of seven patients; incompetence and prescribed to an addict in the care and treatment of one patient; and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked. June 5, 2020. View the decision and the order for CORTES, ARIEL ALEXANDER (A 63637) on the Board's website.

CORTES, GUILLERMO ANDRES (A 122415), Los Angeles, CA

Committed unprofessional conduct in that he sexually assaulted multiple colleagues. Revoked. June 12, 2020. View the decision and the order for CORTES, GUILLERMO ANDRES (A 122415) on the Board's website.

DOZIER, JOHN COURTNEY (G 46031), Susanville, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of four patients; excessively prescribed controlled substances in the care and treatment of three patients; furnished drugs to an addict, prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. June 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for DOZIER, JOHN COURTNEY (G 46031) on the Board's website.

ENGEL, ANN KNABE (G 86811) Nevada City, CA

Admitted to and was convicted of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and used alcohol in such a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public. Surrender of License. June 10, 2020. View the decision and the order for ENGEL, ANN KNABE (G 86811) on the Board's website.

FILLMORE, KIMBERLEY ELLEN, M.D. (G 74184), Stockton, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of five patients; failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of four patients; incompetence in the care and treatment of one patient; and gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete an education course. Public Reprimand. June 4, 2020. View the decision and the order for FILLMORE, KIMBERLEY ELLEN, M.D. (G 74184) on the Board's website.

FRANCIS, RODNEY DARRELL (G 24853), Lancaster, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, excessively prescribed controlled substances, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and furnishing drugs to an addict in the care and treatment of one patient; and has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. June 11, 2020. View the decision and the order for FRANCIS, RODNEY DARRELL (G 24853) on the Board's website.

GARG, SHIKHA, M.D. (A 82372), Folsom, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete an education course, medical record keeping course (condition satisfied), and an ethics course. Public Reprimand. June 4, 2020. View the decision and the order for GARG, SHIKHA, M.D. (A 82372) on the Board's website.

GENOVEZ, MARX P., M.D. (A 168988), San Bernardino, CA

No admissions but charged with unprofessional conduct and incompetence during his postgraduate training. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course, attending psychotherapy; prohibited from practicing medicine outside of an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited postgraduate training program; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for GENOVEZ, MARX P., M.D. (A 168988) on the Board's website.

GERBER, BRET ROBERT, M.D. (G 79213), San Diego, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of two patients, repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of three patients, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; and obtaining a practice monitor. May 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for GERBER, BRET ROBERT, M.D. (G 79213) on the Board's website.

GLANZ, STEVEN MICHAEL (G 73946), Highland Beach, FL

No admission but was charged with unprofessional conduct for two misdemeanor convictions for violation of concealed firearm permit and stalking; and disciplined by the Florida and Ohio Boards. Surrender of License. July 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for GLANZ, STEVEN MICHAEL (G 73946) on the Board's website.

GOODMAN, STANLEY L., M.D. (C 39950), Encino, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course and professional boundaries program. Public Reprimand. May 13, 2020. View the decision and the order for GOODMAN, STANLEY L., M.D. (C 39950) on the Board's website.

GRAY, GREGORY EDWARD, M.D. (G 52593), Ventura, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for GRAY, GREGORY EDWARD, M.D. (G 52593) on the Board's website.

HARLEY, JIM RAYBURN, M.D. (G 55907), San Diego, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; and obtaining a practice monitor. July 9, 2020. View the decision and the order for HARLEY, JIM RAYBURN, M.D. (G 55907) on the Board's website.

HARRIS-STANSIL, TONJA LYNETTE, M.D. (A 88521), French Camp, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. July 30, 2020. View the decision and the order for HARRIS-STANSIL, TONJA LYNETTE, M.D. (A 88521) on the Board's website.

HAUPT, EDWARD THOMAS, M.D. (A 169332), Los Angeles, CA

No admissions but physician disclosed that he participated in a substance abuse recovery program and was treated for an addictive disorder that may impair his ability to practice medicine safely. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; attending psychotherapy; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for HAUPT, EDWARD THOMAS, M.D. (A 169332) on the Board's website.

HEISS, RICHARD JAMES, II, M.D. (G 69342), Bakersfield, CA

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, and placed on seven years' probation, with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical competence assessment program and a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; abstaining from the use of alcohol and controlled substances; completing an education course, ethics course, and a professional boundaries program; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; required to have a third party chaperone present while consulting, examining or treating female patients; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 18, 2020. View the decision and the order for HEISS, RICHARD JAMES, II, M.D. (G 69342) on the Board's website.

HONRATH, THOMAS JOSEPH, M.D. (G 30053), Sebastopol, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of two patients; and repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances and from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; surrendering of DEA permit; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 30, 2020. View the decision and the order for HONRATH, THOMAS JOSEPH, M.D. (G 30053) on the Board's website.

HOWARD, NATHAN STUART, M.D. (A 75819), Hemet, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 9, 2020. View the decision and the order for HOWARD, NATHAN STUART, M.D. (A 75819) on the Board's website.

HUEN, FLOYD, M.D. (G 41373), Oakland, CA

Admitted to excessively prescribing controlled substances to a patient; gross negligence, repeated negligent acts and prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of two patients; and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine. July 30, 2020. View the decision and the order for HUEN, FLOYD, M.D. (G 41373) on the Board's website.

IMAM, NAIYER, M.D. (G 87434), Woodbridge, NJ

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Minnesota for failure to conform to minimal standards of acceptable medical practice. June 5, 2020. View the decision and the order for IMAM, NAIYER, M.D. (G 87434) on the Board's website.

JACINTHO, AKO ALIMAYOU, M.D. (A 70786), San Francisco, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence, excessively prescribing controlled substances, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, altered or modified or created false medical records and prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for JACINTHO, AKO ALIMAYOU, M.D. (A 70786) on the Board's website.

JASON, MARK, M.D. (G 37528), Laguna Hills, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for prescribing controlled substances to four patients and failing to properly document the basis for these prescriptions; and prescribing a controlled substance to a non-patient without a medical record. June 26, 2020. View the decision and the order for JASON, MARK, M.D. (G 37528) on the Board's website.

JENSEN, DAVID RICHARD, M.D. (G 44704), Palmdale, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of four patients and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of six patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; and obtaining a practice monitor. May 6, 2020. View the decision and the order for JENSEN, DAVID RICHARD, M.D. (G 44704) on the Board's website.

JOHNSON, PAUL GILBERT (G 18771), Seal Beach, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of five patients. Surrender of License. July 1, 2020. View the decision and the order for JOHNSON, PAUL GILBERT (G 18771) on the Board's website.

JOSAN, RAMNIK KAUR, M.D. (A 97845), Sacramento, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of four patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine. May 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for JOSAN, RAMNIK KAUR, M.D. (A 97845) on the Board's website.

KNOBLE, MARK EDWARD, M.D. (G 77414), Auburn, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of four patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for KNOBLE, MARK EDWARD, M.D. (G 77414) on the Board's website.

KUMAR, BANGARUSWAMY VIJAYA, M.D. (A 49154), League City, TX

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving while intoxicated and using alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing an education course and an ethics course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 9, 2020 View the decision and the order for KUMAR, BANGARUSWAMY VIJAYA, M.D. (A 49154) on the Board's website.

KUNAM, SYAM PRASAD BABU, M.D. (A 46695), Redlands, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of four patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for KUNAM, SYAM PRASAD BABU, M.D. (A 46695) on the Board's website.

LAO, JESUS HERRERA, M.D. (A 72729), Escondido, CA

Admitted to repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of seven patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for LAO, JESUS HERRERA, M.D. (A 72729) on the Board's website.

LEVIN, RICHARD BRUCE (G 29331), Encinitas, CA

Physician has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely; charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, made recommendations for medical cannabis without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, dishonest or corrupt acts, false representation, modified medical records or created false medical records with criminal intent, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked. May 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for LEVIN, RICHARD BRUCE (G 29331) on the Board's website.

LILES, RICHARD ANTHONY, M.D. (C 168872), Largo, FL

No admissions but charged with dishonest or corrupt acts. Physician must complete an ethics course. Public Reprimand. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for LILES, RICHARD ANTHONY, M.D. (C 168872) on the Board's website.

LIVINGSTON, LAWRENCE HART, M.D. (G 27982), Santa Cruz, CA

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, placed on three additional years' probation, with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical competence assessment program prior to practicing medicine; prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances and from issuing a recommendation or approval for the possession or cultivation of marijuana; abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for LIVINGSTON, LAWRENCE HART, M.D. (G 27982) on the Board's website.

LOPEZ, JOSE VELASCO, JR. (A 39052), Los Angeles, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. July 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for LOPEZ, JOSE VELASCO, JR. (A 39052) on the Board's website.

MALIK, ATIF BABAR (A 84906), Germantown, MD

Disciplined by Pennsylvania for multiple criminal convictions. Revoked. May 8, 2020. View the decision and the order for MALIK, ATIF BABAR (A 84906) on the Board's website.

MANI, MARC EDWARD, M.D. (A 75271), Beverly Hills, CA

No admissions but was convicted of one felony count of failing to file reports of foreign banks and financial accounts; and dishonest and corrupt acts. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, providing 100 hours of medical or non-medical community service; completing an ethics course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 9, 2020. View the decision and the order for MANI, MARC EDWARD, M.D. (A 75271) on the Board's website.

MARCUS, ALAN OGDEN, M.D. (A 39696), Laguna Hills, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for MARCUS, ALAN OGDEN, M.D. (A 39696) on the Board's website.

MICHELSON, DAVID NATHANIEL, M.D. (G 31906), Oxnard, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. May 14, 2020. View the decision and the order for MICHELSON, DAVID NATHANIEL, M.D. (G 31906) on the Board's website.

MIRAKHOR, SOLEYMAN (C 52017), Woodland Hills, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. May 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for MIRAKHOR, SOLEYMAN (C 52017) on the Board's website.

MONTENEGRO, CARLOS HUMBERTO, M.D. (A 48811), Pasadena, CA

No admissions but was charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients; and failed to comply with terms of his Board-ordered probation by failing to obey all laws. Revoked, stayed, and placed on two years' additional probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; completing a prescribing practices course and medical record keeping course; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; notification of employer; obtaining a worksite monitor; and continuing the educational course condition and the practice monitor. May 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for MONTENEGRO, CARLOS HUMBERTO, M.D. (A 48811) on the Board's website.

NAKANO, STACEY ANDORA, M.D. (G 81536), Sacramento, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Revoked, stayed, and placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and medical record keeping course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 12, 2020. View the decision and the order for NAKANO, STACEY ANDORA, M.D. (G 81536) on the Board's website.

NARALA, MADHAVA REDDY, M.D. (A 51494), Fresno, CA

No admissions but was charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising advanced practice nurses. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for NARALA, MADHAVA REDDY, M.D. (A 51494) on the Board's website.

NARANG, YADVINDER KUMAR (A 50042), Bakersfield, CA

Admitted to having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. June 12, 2020. View the decision and the order for NARANG, YADVINDER KUMAR (A 50042) on the Board's website.

NATARAJAN, SIVA VENU, M.D. (A 107471), Irvine, CA

Admitted to using alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence of alcohol and one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for NATARAJAN, SIVA VENU, M.D. (A 107471) on the Board's website.

NELSON, JEFFREY DONALD (G 72339), Orinda, CA

Convicted and required to register as a sex offender. Revoked. July 24, 2020. View the decision and the order for NELSON, JEFFREY DONALD (G 72339) on the Board's website.

NEUMANN, CARLOS ENRIQUE, M.D. (A 77576), Loma Linda, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Wisconsin for failing to comply with continuing medical education requirements. May 18, 2020 View the decision and the order for NEUMANN, CARLOS ENRIQUE, M.D. (A 77576) on the Board's website.

OLIAI, ASGHAR (C 50271), Mission Viejo, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, dishonesty or corruption, false representations, and failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. July 1, 2020. View the decision and the order for OLIAI, ASGHAR (C 50271) on the Board's website.

PANAGIOTIS, NICHOLAS MICHAEL, M.D. (A 23551), Tarzana, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for repeated negligent acts and failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. July 31, 2020. View the decision and the order for PANAGIOTIS, NICHOLAS MICHAEL, M.D. (A 23551) on the Board's website.

PARHAR, NARINDER SINGH (C 43320), Roseville, CA

Convicted and required to register as a sex offender. Revoked. July 24, 2020. View the decision and the order for PARHAR, NARINDER SINGH (C 43320) on the Board's website.

PARK, ARTHUR M., M.D. (A 44597), Bakersfield, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from engaging in hospital-based practice of medicine at a health facility; prohibited from engaging in the practice of obstetrics; prohibited from acting as the operating surgeon in any out-patient surgery setting; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; completing an education course and ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; completing a clinical competence assessment program; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 26, 2020. View the decision and the order for PARK, ARTHUR M., M.D. (A 44597) on the Board's website.

PARSAPOUR, KOUROSH, M.D. (A 79856), Irvine, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, recommended medical marijuana without an appropriate prior examination and medical indication, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records and failed to obtain and/or document informed consent in the care and treatment of two patients; and failed to obtain a fictitious name permit. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; prohibited from performing services relating to the recommendation of marijuana and from recommending marijuana; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for PARSAPOUR, KOUROSH, M.D. (A 79856) on the Board's website.

PARSONS, DONALD SAMUEL, M.D. (G 30974), Danville, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course. Public Reprimand. July 10, 2020. View the decision and the order for PARSONS, DONALD SAMUEL, M.D. (G 30974) on the Board's website.

PATRINELLIS, ANDREW CHARLES (A 68510), Napa, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; sexual misconduct and furnishing controlled substances without a medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of one patient; aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine with another patient; and furnishing and offering to furnish dangerous drugs and controlled substances without a prescription. Surrender of License. July 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for PATRINELLIS, ANDREW CHARLES (A 68510) on the Board's website.

PAUL, CAREY B. (C 42993), Hayden, ID

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. May 14, 2020. View the decision and the order for PAUL, CAREY B. (C 42993) on the Board's website.

PAULSON, HUGO ROBERT (C 133346), Henderson, NV

Disciplined by Arizona for deviating from the standard of care during the course of a dermatologic examination of one patient. Surrender of License. July 14, 2020. View the decision and the order for PAULSON, HUGO ROBERT (C 133346) on the Board's website.

PESSARAN, ALIREZA, M.D. (A 89855), Carmichael, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and failed to provide patient records in connection with his care and treatment of a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice and billing monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for PESSARAN, ALIREZA, M.D. (A 89855) on the Board's website.

PHILLIPS, WILLIAM LEE, M.D. (A 98794), Sacramento, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete an education course and medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. May 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for PHILLIPS, WILLIAM LEE, M.D. (A 98794) on the Board's website.

POKROY, RAANAN ELAN, M.D. (C 54154), Las Vegas, NV

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records. July 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for POKROY, RAANAN ELAN, M.D. (C 54154) on the Board's website.

PONCE, JEANETTE RAE, M.D. (A 68979), Santa Ana, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a professional boundaries program; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 1, 2020. View the decision and the order for PONCE, JEANETTE RAE, M.D. (A 68979) on the Board's website.

POPKOW, STEVEN IVAN (G 62006), Los Angeles, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. July 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for POPKOW, STEVEN IVAN (G 62006) on the Board's website.

PRYOR, SHEPHERD GREEN V., M.D. (A 96325), Scottsdale, AZ

Disciplined by Arizona for being impaired while practicing medicine. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; completing an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; obtaining a worksite monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 6, 2020. View the decision and the order for PRYOR, SHEPHERD GREEN V., M.D. (A 96325) on the Board's website.

RAD, PARMIS YEGANEH, M.D. (C 168795), Moraga, CA

Admitted to self-prescribing drugs in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public; knowingly making or signing a document directly related to the practice of medicine that falsely represented an existence of a statement of fact; created false medical records with fraudulent intent; convicted of contributing to delinquency and dependency of a minor, and disciplined by Arizona for unprofessional conduct including habitual substance abuse, using controlled substances not prescribed by another physician for use during a prescribed course of treatment, prescribing controlled substances to immediate family, knowingly making a false statement in connection with the practice of medicine, violating prescribing drugs laws and failing to maintain adequate records on a patient. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing a prescribing practices course; obtaining a worksite monitor; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for RAD, PARMIS YEGANEH, M.D. (C 168795) on the Board's website.

RALEY, THOMAS JOHN JR, M.D. (C 152901), Stafford, VA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Virginia for failing to appropriately supervise the care rendered to a patient by a Physician Assistant, and failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records. July 31, 2020. View the decision and the order for RALEY, THOMAS JOHN JR, M.D. (C 152901) on the Board's website.

REARDON, PAUL F., M.D. (A 49699), Newport Beach, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 10, 2020. View the decision and the order for REARDON, PAUL F., M.D. (A 49699) on the Board's website.

RHODE, BLAIR ANDREW, M.D. (A 71731), Orland Park, IL

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Illinois for failing to recognize a high-risk patient for post-operative deep vein thrombosis, resulting in the patient's death. July 31, 2020. View the decision and the order for RHODE, BLAIR ANDREW, M.D. (A 71731) on the Board's website.

RUBAUM, LAD EARL, M.D. (A 30746), Panorama City, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine. May 18, 2020. View the decision and the order for RUBAUM, LAD EARL, M.D. (A 30746) on the Board's website.

SALCIDO, DENNIS, M.D. (A 33066), San Jose, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and medical record keeping course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 12, 2020. View the decision and the order for SALCIDO, DENNIS, M.D. (A 33066) on the Board's website.

SCHECHTEL, JOSHUA TODD (G 66905), San Francisco, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients; and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. May 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for SCHECHTEL, JOSHUA TODD (G 66905) on the Board's website.

SEARS, ROBERT WILLIAM, M.D. (A 60936), Capistrano Beach, CA

No admissions but was charged with repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on two years' additional probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 23, 2020. View the decision and the order for SEARS, ROBERT WILLIAM, M.D. (A 60936) on the Board's website.

SERRANO, FELICIANO ANTONIO II, M.D. (A 88849), Huntington Park, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to adequately or accurately document patient communications and consultative recommendations in the care and treatment of three patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. July 23, 2020. View the decision and the order for SERRANO, FELICIANO ANTONIO II, M.D. (A 88849) on the Board's website.

SHAH, DIGISH DINESH, M.D. (A 116712), Santa Monica, CA

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more. Physician must complete an ethics course. Public Reprimand. June 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for SHAH, DIGISH DINESH, M.D. (A 116712) on the Board's website.

SHAH, NICKY (A 66655) San Francisco, CA

Convicted of preparing and offering false evidence at a trial, a felony. Revoked. July 20, 2020. View the decision and the order for SHAH, NICKY (A 66655) on the Board's website.

SMALL, TOLBERT JONES, M.D. (A 23282), Oakland, CA

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients; failed to properly supervise the physician assistant and self-prescribed drugs. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five (35) months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. July 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMALL, TOLBERT JONES, M.D. (A 23282) on the Board's website.

SMITH, JOYCIE MARIA (A 88572), Alameda, CA

Physician has a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. June 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMITH, JOYCIE MARIA (A 88572) on the Board's website.

SOLBERG, MONISSA JOYCE, M.D. (A 107304), Sacramento, CA

Disciplined by Rhode Island for unprofessional conduct by engaging in an inappropriate relationship. Public Reprimand. May 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMITH, JOYCIE MARIA (A 88572) on the Board's website.

SOLIMAN, HISHAM H., M.D. (A 75977), Folsom, CA

No admissions but was charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, prescribing practices course and medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; allowed to supervise nine nurse practitioners that currently work in his place of practice; prohibited from hiring and supervising additional physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. May 8, 2020. View the decision and the order for SOLIMAN, HISHAM H., M.D. (A 75977) on the Board's website.

STEINER, ALICJA SOCZEWKO, M.D. (A 69227), San Diego, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. July 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for STEINER, ALICJA SOCZEWKO, M.D. (A 69227) on the Board's website.

STIRLING, JOHN (G 88086), San Diego, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate records, and failure to comply with CANRA mandatory reporting in the care and treatment of one minor patient. Surrender of License. July 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for STIRLING, JOHN (G 88086) on the Board's website.

TAKOWSKY, GARY STEPHEN, M.D. (A 34305), Beverly Hills, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. June 24, 2020. View the decision and the order for TAKOWSKY, GARY STEPHEN, M.D. (A 34305) on the Board's website.

TIPNIS, NEELESH AJIT (A 71473), Jackson, MS

No admissions but physician voluntarily relinquished his license in Mississippi due to allegations of sexual misconduct. Surrender of License. July 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for TIPNIS, NEELESH AJIT (A 71473) on the Board's website.

VERMA, VISHAL, M.D. (A 81760), San Diego, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Maryland for unprofessional conduct for attempting to obtain a license by misrepresentation. May 18, 2020. View the decision and the order for VERMA, VISHAL, M.D. (A 81760) on the Board's website.

VITALI, RYAN SAMUEL, M.D. (A 106700), Roseville, CA

No admissions but has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; obtaining a worksite monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses, however he can supervise physician assistants and advanced practice nurses while performing surgical duties. June 4, 2020. View the decision and the order for VITALI, RYAN SAMUEL, M.D. (A 106700) on the Board's website.

WEST, JAMES LEONARD, M.D. (A 168908), Loma Linda, CA

No admissions but physician disclosed that he was required to resign from his training program due to unprofessional interaction with colleagues and the consumption of alcohol, which were not related to patient safety; and was convicted of driving while impaired. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine (condition met); notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; attending psychotherapy; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; completing an ethics course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. June 4, 2020. View the decision and the order for WEST, JAMES LEONARD, M.D. (A 168908) on the Board's website.

WILLIAMS, MARK DAVID (G 88791), Tucson, AZ

Disciplined by Arizona for engaging in unprofessional conduct. Revoked. May 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for WILLIAMS, MARK DAVID (G 88791) on the Board's website.

WILSON, SAMUEL GEORGE, M.D. (G 55580), Hesperia, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for engaging in unprofessional conduct by delaying referral to a specialist and improper management of patient care. July 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for WILSON, SAMUEL GEORGE, M.D. (G 55580) on the Board's website.

WITHERS, GREGORY JOHN, M.D. (G 27800), Arcadia, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete an education course. Public Reprimand. July 30 2020. View the decision and the order for WITHERS, GREGORY JOHN, M.D. (G 27800) on the Board's website.

YATES, ATI URBAN (G 146224), The Dalles, OR

No admissions but physician voluntarily relinquished her license in New Mexico due to being under investigation for gross negligence and repeated acts of negligence in Oregon. Surrender of License. June 25, 2020. View the decision and the order for YATES, ATI URBAN (G 146224) on the Board's website.