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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

Winter has come and will soon be gone, and while we look forward to longer days and more sunshine, a lot of important updates have happened during this season.

The Medical Board of California's (Board) recently-elected president, Kristina D. Lawson, writes her first "President's Message" sharing her journey and passion with the Board over the past five years, along with her top priorities for 2021.

As in every Winter newsletter edition, the Board shares legislation that is pertinent to the practice of medicine in California. Find the 2020 legislative summaries on page 12.

We're also introducing a new column - the Partner Updates Column - intended to distribute important and relevant information for licensees from the Board's trusted partners. This edition, you will find news and updates from the California Department of Public Health.

Other important topics you won't want to miss are the updates on CURES licensing fees, the Board's Sunset Report, and information about electronic prescriptions (AB 2789) which goes into effect Jan. 1, 2022.

Sharing Life In and Out of the White Coat: Jesse Berry, MD, Steven Thompson Loan Repayment Program Recipient

By Emmalee Ross

A wife, mother, researcher, lover of fashion, Peloton-rider, and social media influencer - Jesse Berry, M.D., is living proof you can be a doctor while living a well-rounded, fulfilled life.

In fact, she encourages it.

Blogging about the ups, the downs, and the in-betweens, Dr. Berry urges her readers to pursue all of their passions - leading by example and transparency.

The first in her family to attend college, Berry, a Wisconsin native, found her passion in the early 2000s during medical school when she went on two ophthalmology medical missions to Africa and India.

"I had no desire to do ophthalmology," says Berry, now an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Southern California (USC) and the Associate Director of Ocular Oncology at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. "At the time, I probably couldn't tell you the difference between ophthalmology and optometry."

While on her medical missions, Berry assisted with cataract surgeries. People would travel from all over the region to remote camps, navigating by cane and often guided by young grandchildren. A day after surgery, the once-blind patients would take their eye patches off and could see. There was singing, dancing, and celebrating - Berry knew she found her calling.

"As someone who is interested in medicine, public health, and giving back to people in need, it was such an impactful experience," she says.

Today, Berry takes care of patients with a very rare and devastating eye cancer called retinoblastoma - which can rob children of their vision or even their lives if not caught early enough or treated appropriately.

With only 250-300 new cases in the US every year, Berry works at the third largest retinoblastoma center in the country, Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).

Often giving families heart-breaking diagnoses - as 30 percent of kids diagnosed with retinoblastoma have it in both eyes and are at risk later in life - Berry says having a daughter of her own has made her a better doctor.

"When I go in and see these parents really scared and struggling, I get it, I would feel very similar," she says. "I try to put myself in their position. How would I feel if this was a doctor talking about (my daughter) Daphne? And how would the doctor best engender my trust?"

Along with seeing patients, over the last two years Berry has been working on exciting, ground-breaking research, what she calls "a beautiful whirlwind" since making an important discovery.

"The cancer in the eye of the kids, the retinoblastoma, it cannot be biopsied. My whole body of research is about using the aqueous humor, the clear fluid in the front of the eye, to act as a liquid biopsy to the tumor," says Berry, who hopes to bring the research to the clinical space in the next few years. "We're able to find tumor DNA, tumor molecules, and all sorts of really impactful things you would normally get from a biopsy."

Berry credits her ability to work at CHLA and perform crucial research to the Steven M. Thompson Loan Repayment Program - created to increase health care access in medically underserved areas of California. The program repays physicians up to $105,000 in educational loans in exchange for three years of full-time service.

"When you have six figures of loans to pay off, it can be really hard to step away from clinical care and the potential pay cuts that brings," says Berry, whose family didn't have the financial means to send her to medical school. "I would have gone to medical school either way because I really wanted to be a doctor, but it opened up so many opportunities and gave me such freedom to pursue my passion."

Following undergraduate and medical school at Harvard University, Berry participated in a year-long internship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, which has a notable retinoblastoma program. It was there she fell in love with the process and unique opportunity to diagnose and work with children and follow them throughout their lives.

After a three-year surgical residency at USC, Berry completed her fellowship at CHLA in 2014 - a "patient-centered practice and hospital" according to Berry, and where she has worked ever since.

"We treat kids regardless of insurance status. Many are on Medi-Cal with very limited means," says Berry. "The hospital supports us in taking care of these patients, whatever they need."

Berry's heart for helping those less fortunate stems from her own childhood experience, and the reason she was motivated to go into medicine initially - her family dentist.

"Even though my family didn't have the means to pay him, he took care of my teeth," says Berry, "I was so inspired that he would go to school, go to training, and give it to people who needed it the most, regardless of their ability to pay."

As dogs bark in the background, and baby Daphne competes for her mom's attention, Berry talks about life during the pandemic.

"Lots of Zoom," she laughs.

Because her patients' needs are considered urgent, Berry has continued seeing them in the clinic essentially since the beginning of lockdowns in March 2020, but with some difficulty.

"Connecting with families and patients over their diagnoses and making them feel comfortable is something I care about, and the mask really hinders that," says Berry. "They can't see my face and I'm telling them this crazy thing they didn't know existed. That's been a hard part of the pandemic for sure."

Being at high risk to contract the virus, Berry decided to get the COVID-19 vaccine after much research and contemplation in order to protect her family.

"I just felt like I'm the biggest risk factor for getting my husband and Daphne sick, and I wanted to do whatever I could to lower that risk as long as I felt it was safe," says Berry who received her first shot of the vaccine and is waiting for round two. "I decided the vaccine was safer than me getting the virus."

During quarantine, exercise and hobbies have been instrumental to Berry's self-care. Most important, however, is her family.

"I spend my whole day working to bring another family a healthy child, and I'm so blessed to have a healthy child at home," says Berry, who encourages physicians to feel emboldened to have children at any point in their career. "More than ever before, self-care isn't just taking a bubble bath; invest in things you love, things that are true passions in your life, and don't hide from that."

In a recent Instagram post, Berry encapsulates this very sentiment with a picture of her husband and daughter (who resembles Berry with a head full of curls) by writing, "Sunday plans: these two. And maybe some more Gossip Girl binging while Daphne naps. My day tomorrow starts at 6. I'm learning more and more that to create a rich home and career life, you need to invest in both in an intentional way. So today is for rest and silliness and pjs until noon. Tomorrow there will be plenty of time for career, today is for home."

Thinking back over her time in residency, Berry offers advice for current and aspiring residents: before you choose a residency, understand how you like to learn.

"For me, I wanted a place that was really hands on, where it mattered if you showed up. I wanted a place where I saw all sorts of crazy things so I'd be able to handle anything thrown my way," she says. "Knowing yourself and your comfort zone as a doctor is important."

Berry hopes to continue inspiring young trainees considering medical careers through her Instagram posts, demonstrating through her own life that balancing home life and work life is possible.

In an Instagram post from June 2020, a happy, but tired-looking Berry in royal blue scrubs writes, "Today was long, made harder by COVID, but I'm headed home to my squish knowing I helped a few babes and their families today. Knowing that I'm blessed to love what I do and honored to be here for patients during these critical times. Lucky to know that when I leave Daph, it's always to do something I am passionate about...Just know that what you're working for is so very worth it. Even at the end of a 12+ hour day (that isn't really over yet), it's still, entirely worth it. Xx"

President's Message: A New Year and New Beginnings

By Kristina D. Lawson

With 2021 in full swing, I thought it would be appropriate to begin my first President's Message with a brief introduction.

I've had the honor and privilege of serving on the Medical Board of California for the past five years and am excited to continue serving the people of California as Board President. Serving on the Board has truly been a labor of love - and a way to honor the legacy of my father, the late Dr. Erno Daniel. My father was an internist and geriatrician who graduated from the UCLA School of Medicine, and practiced medicine for his entire career at the Sansum Clinic in Santa Barbara.

I take my role as a public member on the Board seriously, and am committed to fulfilling and advancing the Board's consumer protection mission. I look forward to working alongside my fellow Board members to meet the Board's mission. That being said, there is a lot of work ahead of the Board and its staff in 2021 as we enter the sunset review process.

Every four years, the Board has the opportunity to work with state legislators and stakeholders to improve consumer protection in California through the sunset review process, and this year we have a lot of great ideas. The Board recently posted these ideas and other pertinent information regarding its licensing and enforcement functions in the 2020 Sunset Review Oversight Report.

Aside from the sunset report, another of my top priorities as Board President will be to continue the dialogue that my predecessor, Denise Pines, began with consumer advocates and other interested parties. These meetings allow the Board and the public to come to the table and engage in conversation about the Board, gather feedback, and talk about ways to improve the Board.

A new year also means new laws. Inside this edition of Medical Board of California News, you will find information on these new laws that affect the practice of medicine in California. I strongly urge you to read through this edition of newsletter and familiarize yourself with the law changes.

Consumer Corner: The Most Efficient Way to File a Complaint

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

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.

CURES Fee Increases Coming Soon

As required by AB 3330, the fee charged to maintain the Controlled Substances Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES) is set to increase from $12 to $22 for licenses that expire on or after July 1, 2021. The fee will then decrease to $18 for licenses expiring on or after July 1, 2023.

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

Sunset Review Update 2021

By Carlos Villatoro, Public Information Manager

The Medical Board of California (Board) recently posted its Sunset Review Oversight Report 2020, highlighting the work the Board accomplished on behalf of California consumers during the past four years. The report features a variety of information pertaining to the Board's licensing and enforcement efforts, an update on previous issues since the last sunset review, and new issues the Board would like to address during this sunset review process. One key item is a necessary fee increase that will support the Board's operations.

Sunset review is an opportunity for the Board to work with state legislators and stakeholders to review the Board's accomplishments and discuss possible changes in the law that will support its mission of consumer protection.

The first sunset review hearing date has not been scheduled as of the posting of this newsletter, however, the Board will post the information on its website and social media sites, and send an email to news alert subscribers. To sign up for Medical Board news alerts, please visit the Board's website.

Central Complaint Unit Medical Consultants Needed

The Medical Board of California's (Board) Central Complaint Unit is accepting applications for the Medical Consultant Program.

Medical Consultants review complaints to determine whether a formal investigation by Board investigative staff is needed, or if the complaint can be resolved by a preliminary review of the medical records and a physician narrative statement.

Participating physicians are reimbursed $75 per hour for record review and report preparation.

If you are interested, please contact Therese Kelly at (916) 263-2434 or Mai Chang at (916) 263-2463. The application and eligibility requirements are available from our website.

While all specialties are welcome to apply, the Board is in need of physicians with the specialties below:

• Cardiac Surgery
• Colon and Rectal Surgery
• Dermatology
• Gynecology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Interventional Radiology
• Neonatal/Perinatal
• Neurological Surgery
• Pain Medicine
• Plastic Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery

Legislative Summaries 2020

Allied Health

AB 890 (Wood, Chapter 265) - Nurse Practitioners: Scope of Practice: Practice Without Standardized Procedures

Creates two pathways for nurse practitioners (NP) licensed by the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) to practice without the supervision of a physician and surgeon, as specified.

AB 1710 (Wood, Chapter, 123) - Pharmacy Practices: Vaccines

This bill allows authorized pharmacists to independently initiate and administer any COVID-19 vaccines approved or authorized by the federal Food and Drug Administration to persons three years of age or older.

AB 2077 (Ting, Chapter 274) - Hypodermic Needles and Syringes

Extends the sunset on existing law, until January 1, 2026, which permits pharmacists to furnish hypodermic needles and syringes without a prescription or a permit, for human use to a person 18 years of age or older. Permits a person 18 years of age or older, without a prescription or license, to obtain hypodermic needles and syringes solely for personal use from a physician or pharmacist.

SB 1237 (Dodd, Chapter, 88) - Nurse-Midwives: Scope of Practice

This bill allows certified nurse-midwives (CNM) to attend low-risk pregnancies (as defined) and provide prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care services, without the supervision of a physician and surgeon. SB 1237 requires the transfer of a patient from a CNM to a physician and surgeon and authorizes a CNM to furnish or order drugs and medical devices, under specified conditions.

Fees

AB 3330 (Calderon, Chapter 359) - Department of Consumer Affairs: Boards: Licensees: Regulatory Fees

Increased fees for certain boards under the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) and states that fees pertaining to Controlled Substance Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES) are as follows:

• For licenses that expire on or after July 1, 2021, an annual fee of $11 ($22 per two-year license renewal)
• For licenses that expire on or after July 1, 2023, an annual fee of $9 ($18 per two-year license renewal)
• Exempts licensees in a retired or inactive status (unless they can still prescribe, order, administer, furnish, or dispense controlled substances)

Licensure

AB 2113 (Low, Chapter 186) - Refugees, Asylees, and Special Immigrant Visa Holders

Requires a DCA board to expedite, and authorizes it to assist, the initial licensure process for an applicant who supplies satisfactory evidence to the board that they are a refugee, have been granted asylum, or have a special immigrant visa, as specified.

AB 2273 (Bloom, Chapter 280) - Approvals and Certificates of Registration: Special Faculty Permits

This bill allows qualified individuals to obtain a special permit, via existing Medical Board of California (Board) programs previously available only to medical schools, to practice medicine in an academic medical center, as defined.

Practice Administration

AB 2520 (Chiu, Chapter 101) - Access to Medical Records

Requires a health care provider to provide an employee of a nonprofit legal services entity that represents a patient a copy of that patient's medical records at no charge if needed to support the patient's claim for certain public benefit and visa programs.

Public Health

AB 685 (Reyes, Chapter 84) - Occupational Safety: COVID-19 Exposure: Notification

Requires public and private employers who receive a notice of potential exposure to COVID-19 to provide certain notices to designated parties.

SB 275 (Pan, Chapter 301) - Health Care and Essential Workers: Personal Protective Equipment

Requires health care employers, including, but not limited to physicians' offices, medical corporations, and health clinics, to maintain an inventory of new, unexpired personal protective equipment for use during a declared state of emergency, as specified. Requirement begins no earlier than January 1, 2023.

Public Safety

AB 2014 (Maienschein, Chapter 244) - Medical Misconduct: Misuse of Sperm, Ova, or Embryos: Statute of Limitations

Provides that criminal complaints involving the unlawful use or implantation of sperm, ova, or embryos must be filed within one year after the discovery of the offense or within one year after the offense could have reasonably been discovered. Current statute of limitations is within three years after the commission of the offense.

AB 3092 (Wicks, Chapter 246) - Sexual Assault and Other Sexual Misconduct

Revives claims for damages arising out of a sexual assault or other inappropriate contact, communication, or activity of a sexual nature by a physician while employed by a medical clinic owned and operated by the University of California, Los Angeles, or a physician who held active privileges at a hospital owned and operated by the University of California, Los Angeles, at the time that the sexual assault or other inappropriate contact, communication, or activity of a sexual nature occurred, between January 1, 1983, and January 1, 2019, that would otherwise be barred before January 1, 2021, solely because the applicable statute of limitations has or had expired.

State Administration

SB 878 (Jones, Chapter 131) - Department of Consumer Affairs: License: Application: Processing Timeframes

Starting July 1, 2021, requires each DCA board to prominently display on its website, on at least a quarterly basis, average timeframes to process its license applications, as specified.

SB 1474 (Senate BP&ED Committee, Chapter 312) - Business and Professions

This prohibits any licensee regulated by a DCA board from including in a contract or proposed contract a provision that limits a consumer's ability to initiate, or participate in, a board investigation of that licensee. Contains various other provisions, including the following related to the Board:

1. Amend Business and Professions Code (BPC) section 125.9 to state that a DCA licensee may be subject to discipline for failure to pay a fine or comply with an order of abatement, or both, within 30 days of the date of assessment or order.
2. Amend BPC section 2065(h) to remove unnecessary language related to postgraduate training obtained in another state or Canada.
3. Amend BPC section 2113(e) to allow the Board to accept a clinical practice appointment pursuant to that section as qualifying time to meet the postgraduate training requirement needed to qualify for licensure.
4. Amend BPC section 2135.5 to clarify that an applicant for a California license who holds a physician and surgeon's license issued in another state or Canada may qualify if they meet the recently added 36-month postgraduate training requirement, as specified.

Spotlight Legislation: Expedited Licensure for Refugees, Asylum Seekers, and Holders of Special Immigrant Visas

Starting January 1, 2021, individuals in the following categories who apply for licensure by the Medical Board of California may seek an expedited licensure process.

1. Refugees pursuant to section 1157 of title 8 of the United States Code;
2. Those granted asylum by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Attorney General of the United States pursuant to section 1158 of title 8 of the United States Code; or,
3. Individuals with a special immigrant visa that have been granted a status pursuant to section 1244 of Public Law 110-181, Public Law 109-163, or section 602(b) of title VI of division F of Public Law 111-8.

In order to receive the expedited licensure process, individuals must provide documentation of their refugee, asylee, or special immigrant visa status when submitting their application package. Please note that this does not mean a license must be issued, but simply that the process will be expedited.

For more information and documentation examples, please visit the Department of Consumer Affairs' website

Expert Reviewer Ad: MBC Needs You!

If you live in CA and have a full-time active practice in CA, apply to be an Expert Reviewer for MBC.

History

The Medical Board of California (Board) established its Expert Reviewer Program in July 1994 as an impartial and professional means to support its investigation and enforcement functions. Expert Reviewers (Experts)assist the Board by providing reviews and opinions on board cases and conducting medical and psychiatric evaluations.

Requirements

Actively practicing physicians from all other specialties not listed are also welcome to apply and participate in the program. Physicians must be board certified, have been practicing their specialty for a minimum of three years after board certification, have no current complaints, no prior discipline, and must be willing and available to testify in court.

Midwives

The Board also needs midwife expert reviewers throughout the state of California. Licensed midwives must have an active midwifery practice for the past two years, have no current complaints, no prior discipline, and must be willing and available to testify in court.

Contact

For more information regarding compensation and how to apply, please visit our website or e-mail the Board's expert program at MBCMedicalExpertProgram@mbc.ca.gov.

The Board is looking for experts in the following specialties:

• Addiction Medicine with added certification in Family or Internal or Psychiatry
• Clinical Genetics
• Colon/Rectal Surgery
• Dermatology
• Family Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Hematology
• Neurological Surgery
• Neurology
• Obstetrics and Gynecology (with added expertise in Gynecologic Oncology)
• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Pathology (preferably from the following counties: Orange, Riverside, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, and Ventura)
• Pain Medicine
• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
• Pediatric Critical Care
• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Plastic Surgery
• Psychiatry (Forensic and Addiction)
• Radiation Oncology
• Surgery (General and Endocrine Surgery)
• Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery
• Urology (General and Gender Reassignment)
• Vascular Surgery
• Midwife Reviewer

Reminder: Mandatory E-Prescriptions Begin January 1, 2022

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

Beginning January 1, 2022, all prescriptions issued by a licensed prescriber will need to be done electronically pursuant to Assembly Bill (AB) 2789.

The law requires that all prescriptions in California shall be issued as an electronic data transmission prescription (e-prescriptions). The law, however, provides certain exemptions including, if an e-prescription is temporarily unavailable because of technological or electrical failure, or if the prescription is dispensed by a pharmacy located outside California. The exemptions to these requirements are included within Business and Professions Code section 688.

Under this law, a healthcare practitioner who does not utilize an e-prescription to issue a controlled substance prescription shall document the reason as soon as practicable, and within 72 hours of the end of the end of the technological or electrical failure.

Healthcare practitioners who fail to meet the requirements of AB 2789, will be referred to the appropriate state professional licensing board solely for administration sanctions, as deemed appropriate by the Medical Board of California (Board).

The Board recommends that all licensed prescribers have paper prescription forms available that meet the requirements of Health and Safety Code section 11162.1, should a technological or electrical failure prevent a prescription from being issued electronically.

In June 2010, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) established the Electronic Prescriptions for Controlled Substances (EPCS) procedures. The DEA Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations provides EPCS guidance including, third-party certification that prescription software applications meet DEA requirements, identify-proofing of prescribers, two-factor authentication when signing prescriptions, and access controls established by software users. Part 1311 of Title 21 specifies the requirements in detail. For assistance, or more information on EPCS, contact EPCS@usdoj.gov.

For additional information about these requirements, please visit the California Legislation Information webpage.

You Asked For It: Questions Received from the Web

By Alexandria Schembra

I am retiring and will no longer be practicing. Do I need to do anything with my license?

While the law does not require you to change the status of your license, you do have several options to choose from which can have an impact on your renewal fees and continuing medical education (CME) requirements. If you wish to change the status of your license, you will need to do so before your license expires in order to avoid a delinquent status (30 days following the expiration date) and the imposition of additional fees. The license status you choose will vary depending on your circumstances, as described below.

Retired Status: A licensee who applies for a retired license is exempt from paying renewal fees and CME requirements. However, if you are renewing your license at the same time you are applying for retired status, California Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 2436.5 requires licensees to pay a mandatory $25 fee. If the license is current, a $25 fee is not required until renewal. A retired status license must be renewed every two years. Once a license is retired, no practice is permitted in California, including providing treatments of any kind, prescribing medications, and diagnosing conditions.

If you choose to return to practice medicine, you must complete an application to restore your license, pay the full $820.00 renewal fee, and provide proof of completing required CME.

Inactive License: A physician who wants to retain a license, while not actively practicing medicine in California, may apply for an inactive license. With an inactive license, a physician may not practice medicine in California, and does not need to comply with CME requirements. Inactivating a license does not change the expiration date, and the renewal fee is the same as an active license. To return to active status, you must complete an application to restore your license, and provide proof of completing required CME.

Surrender of License: A physician may apply to voluntarily surrender their license, returning their Wall Certificate and the last license issued to the Medical Board of California (Board). Once the application is completed and approved, the Board will notify you of the date your license is canceled. A physician who surrenders their California license may not practice medicine in California, no longer pays renewal fees, and is not obligated to take CME. A surrendered license may not be renewed, reissued, reinstated, or restored. To regain licensure, you must apply for a new license, and meet current licensing requirements.

I would like to volunteer my services. Is there a special license I need?

To apply for voluntary, unpaid service, you must complete the voluntary service application (which waives the initial license or renewal fee) and the initial application for a California physician's and surgeon's license (if you do not hold a current California license). While the initial and renewal fees are waived, BPC Section 2634.5 and BPC Section 208 require licensees to pay a mandatory $25 fee and $12 fee every two years at the time of renewal. A voluntary service licensee must comply with CME requirements.

If you want to apply for a voluntary license, but your license is currently in delinquent status, a payment of all accrued renewal fees, a delinquent fee, a penalty fee, plus the $25 and $12 mandatory fees must be submitted with the voluntary service application.

The Board developed the Volunteer Physician Registry (VPR) to help provide access to physicians who want to provide voluntary services in California. The registry is intended to be used by clinics or other entities seeking volunteer physicians.

I have a retired license but want to assist during the pandemic. How do I activate my license?

On March 30, 2020, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-39-20, giving the Director of the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) authority to waive professional licensing requirements for the healing arts boards under DCA during the COVID-19 State of Emergency.

DCA-20-91 extends the temporary waiver of continuing education requirements and payment of required fees for individuals seeking to restore a retired/inactive license until July 1, 2021, or when the State of Emergency ceases to exist, whichever is sooner.

If you meet the criteria, complete an application to temporarily restore your license to active status. Once the Board confirms your medical license is restored, you may register with the California Health Corps.

For questions or to discuss which license status option is best suited for you, please contact the Board at 1-800-633-2322 or webmaster@mbc.ca.gov.

Partner Updates Column: New Requirements for Issuing Medical Exemptions

California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has launched the California Immunization Registry - Medical Exemption (CAIR ME) website to request, issue, manage, and track medical exemptions from required immunizations for children attending school or childcare facilities. CAIR-ME was created in response to Senate Bills 276 and 714 passed in 2019.

As of January 1, 2021, new medical exemptions for children can only be issued using the CAIR-ME website. MDs and DOs licensed in California can register to use CAIR-ME at any time in order to issue a medical exemption. Current users of CAIR2 will still need to register to use CAIR-ME. Instructions are available on CAIR-ME to guide you through registration and submission of a medical exemption.

For more information about the new requirements and process for submitting exemptions in CAIR-ME, CDPH has posted a previously recorded webinar available for on-demand viewing on the CAIR-ME website.

Partner Updates Column: California Wound Botulism Increase Possibly Driven by the COVID-19 Pandemic Rise in Opioid Use

California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) urges healthcare providers to be aware of the risk of wound botulism in patients who inject drugs, in light of an increase in suspected wound botulism cases in California from October to December 2020.

As opiate and injection drug use (IDU) have increased in the US amidst the pandemic, physicians should consider the diagnosis of botulism in patients who present with cranial nerve deficits and a history of IDU. CDPH requests physicians immediately report any patients with suspected botulism to the communicable disease program of the local health department (LHD) of the patient's residence. If an emergency occurs afterhours, and the LHD cannot be reached, physicians may contact the CDPH Duty Officer at (916) 328-3605.

In addition to the above steps, CDPH recommends physicians counsel patients (who report opiate and other IDU) on risks, signs, and symptoms of wound botulism - along with other infectious complications associated with IDU (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B and C, endocarditis).

Timely clinical diagnosis and treatment of wound botulism may be lifesaving. Botulism is both a medical and public health emergency and California Code of Regulations Title 17 requires that healthcare providers immediately report suspected botulism cases to their LHD.

Wound Botulism in California

Botulism is a rare but potentially fatal paralytic illness caused by a potent neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), the anaerobic bacteria found naturally in the environment in soil and water. Wound botulism occurs when C. botulinum spores germinate in a wound and produce neurotoxin. California reports the highest number of wound botulism cases in the United States, almost always associated with IDU.

Reports to the CDPH of suspected cases of wound botulism have recently increased; 23 patients with suspected wound botulism associated with IDU have been reported to the CDPH from October 1 to December 31, 2020. This is a marked increase from the 3 to 12 cases (median, 4) of suspected wound botulism reported during the October to December timeframe in 2015 through 2019.

Recent investigations suggest that opiate use and IDU have increased over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially resulting in more persons at risk of acquiring wound botulism. Furthermore, challenges to medical care access and burden during to the pandemic may have resulted in delay in patients seeking care or missed botulism diagnosis by providers.

Clinical Syndrome and Treatment

Presenting symptoms of botulism usually include multiple cranial nerve abnormalities such as ptosis, blurred vision, and dysphagia, which can progress to a descending paralysis and respiratory failure. Wound botulism associated with IDU is the most common type of botulism identified among adults in California. Persons who inject black tar heroin are at especially high risk for wound botulism; neither cooking the drug nor cleaning drug paraphernalia ("works") decreases risk for botulism as the Clostridial spores are not inactivated by those measures.

Not all IDU-associated wound botulism patients present with a visible abscess or infected wound; in addition, a history of neurological symptoms may be difficult to obtain and may resemble drug intoxication or withdrawal. Clinicians should therefore have a high index of suspicion for wound botulism when a patient with a history of IDU presents with symptoms compatible with botulism, as rapid clinical diagnosis is essential to ensure appropriate treatment. Delayed or missed diagnoses at initial presentation may result in more severe outcomes. However, confirmatory diagnosis requires a specialized public health laboratory test and may takes weeks to finalize. Therefore, treatment should be based on clinical diagnosis and not be delayed for laboratory confirmation of botulism.

In addition to intensive supportive care, treatment for non-infant botulism includes administering botulinum antitoxin (BAT) as soon as possible. BAT does not reverse paralysis but arrests its progression by binding to free botulinum toxin, which prevents it from being internalized further in the neuromuscular junction. Healthcare providers should immediately report suspected cases of botulism to the LHD. Consultation for suspected cases is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the LHD. The LHD will work with CDPH for consultation and coordinate specimen collection for laboratory testing, and CDPH will coordinate with CDC for BAT release. The Los Angeles County (LAC) Department of Public Health authorizes the release of BAT from CDC and tests for botulism for LAC residents hospitalized within their jurisdiction. Note that infant botulism, affecting infants less than 15 months of age, is managed separately through the infant botulism program (infantbotulism.org).

Additional Resources

The CDPH has created a poster that warns of the increased risk of wound botulism associated with injecting black tar heroin that can be shared with persons at risk.

Additional information and materials may be found on the CDPH botulism and CDC IDU and wound botulism pages:

cdph.ca.gov

cdc.gov

Partner Updates Column: Get the Lead Out: Are Your Patients Missing Mandated Blood Lead Testing Due to the Pandemic?

Update from the California Department of Public Health, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) urges physicians to remind at-risk pediatric patients about their required blood lead tests.

Statewide, there has been a significant decrease in blood lead testing due to COVID-19.

Additionally, an analysis in the California State Auditor's Report 2019-105, issued January 7, 2020, determined from fiscal years 2009-2010 through 2017-2018, more than 1.4 million one-and two-year-old children did not receive any of the required tests, and another 740,000 children missed one of the two tests.

If well-child checks and mandated blood lead testing are missed, due to COVID-19 or for other reasons, catch-up testing requirements are:

• When testing is missed at 12 months of age, catch-up testing is mandated between 12 and 24 months of age.
• When testing is missed at age 24 months or later, catch-up testing is mandated for children ages 24 months to 72 months.

At-risk children mandated to be blood lead tested at ages 12 and 24 months under current California regulations include:

• Children in publicly funded programs for low-income children including:
  • Medicaid/Medi-Cal
  • CHDP
  • WIC
• Children not in a publicly supported program for low income children whose parents or guardians answer "yes" or "don't know" to the following question:
  • "Does your child live in, or spend a lot of time in, a place built before 1978 that has peeling of chipped paint or that has been recently renovated?"

For California regulations, blood lead test indications, and requirements for catch-up testing, please visit CDPH's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch (CLPPB), California Screening Regulations webpage.

Childhood Lead Poisoning Updates: AB 2276

Assembly Bill (AB) 2276 (Reyes) was signed into law September 2020, adding risk factors that CDPH needs to consider as part of the standard of care. The law requires all children up to 72 months to be evaluated for risk of lead poisoning by healthcare providers during their periodic health assessment.

These additional risk factors include:

• Residency in or visit to a foreign country
• Residency in a high-risk zip code
• A child who has a sibling or playmate with lead poisoning
• The likelihood of a child placing non-food items in the mouth
• Proximity to current or former lead-producing facilities
• The likelihood of a child using food, medicine, or dishes from other countries

Existing law (AB 1316, Statutes of 2017) requires CDPH to consider risk factors that include:

• Proximity to a former lead or steel smelter
• Proximity to an industrial facility that historically or currently emits lead
• Proximity to a freeway or heavily traveled road
• Spending time in a home, school, or building built before 1978
• Other potential risk factors for lead exposure and known sources of lead contamination

As required by these laws, CDPH is currently promulgating revised healthcare provider standard of care regulations which consider the additional specified risk factors. The regulations are expected to publicly notice in 2021.

Resources for Medical Providers

The CLPPB has resources available for medical providers who would like more information about lead poisoning prevention and management.

To view available materials, please visit the CLPPB for Patient Materials or Provider Materials. To order materials, please contact CLPPB_Provider_Materials@cdph.ca.gov.

Live educational webinars provided by a CLPPB Medical Officer are also available.

To schedule a webinar, contact the CLPPB at CLPPB_Provider_Outreach@cdph.ca.gov

Mandatory Reporting Requirements Winter Edition 2021

Reporting to the Board

California Business & Professions Codes require physicians and surgeons, and certain allied health professionals licensed in California to file specific reports with the Medical Board of California regarding specific occurrences. Below is a summary of those reports.

Physicians:

• Physicians without malpractice insurance must report a settlement (over $30,000), judgment (any amount) or arbitration award (any amount) within a specified time frame. The same holds true for attorneys who represent physicians without malpractice insurance.
  • mbc.ca.gov/Download/Forms/enf-801.pdf
  • Business and Professions Code §801.01
• Physician Reporting - Criminal Actions: An indictment or information charging a felony or any conviction of any felony or misdemeanor must be reported within 30 days.
  • mbc.ca.gov/Download/Forms/enf-802.pdf
  • Business and Professions Code §802.1
• Transfer to Hospital form, or Death of Patient in Outpatient Surgery Setting: Physicians performing a medical procedure outside of a general acute care hospital resulting in patient death must report within 15 days. Physicians performing a medical procedure outside of a general acute care hospital resulting in a patient transfer to a hospital for treatment of more than 24 hours must be reported within 15 days.
  • mbc.ca.gov/Download/Forms/oss-patient-death.pdf
  • mbc.ca.gov/Download/Forms/enf-2240b.pdf
  • Business and Professions Code §2240
• Notification of Name Change: Name changes must be reported within 30 days.
  • Name Change
  • Business and Professions Code §2021(c)
• Address of Record: A change of address must be reported within 30 days.
  • Change of Address
  • Business and Professions Code §2021(b)
• Email Address: Any physician with an email account is required to notify the Board of their email address.
  • Notice of Change of Address/Email
  • Business and Professions Code §2021(d)

Others:

• Health facilities and entities that allow a licensed healthcare professional to provide care for patients, must report allegations of sexual abuse and sexual misconduct made by a patient against a licensed healthcare practitioner within a specified time frame.
  • Health Facility Reporting Form (805.8 Report)
  • Senate Bill 425 (Hill)
• Insurers' report of Malpractice Settlement or Arbitration Award within a specified time frame.
  • Report of Settlement, Judgment, or Arbitration Award (801 Report)
  • Business and Professions Code §801.01
• Self-insured employers of physicians report of settlement, judgment or arbitration award within a specified time frame.
  • Report of Settlement, Judgment, or Arbitration Award (801 Report)
  • Business and Professions Code §801.01
• State or local government agencies that self-insure physicians, report of settlement, judgment or arbitration award within a specified time frame.
  • Report of Settlement, Judgment, or Arbitration Award (801 Report)
  • Business and Professions Code §801.01
• Peer Review and Health Facility Reporting
  • Health Facility/Peer Review Reporting Form (805 Report)
  • Business and Professions Code §805
  • Health Facility Reporting Form - Proposed Action (805.01 Report)
  • Business and Professions Code §805.01
• Reporting for Coroners
  • Reporting Requirements for Coroners
  • Business and Professions Code §802.5
• Reporting requirements for court clerks and prosecuting agencies.
  • Health Facility Reporting Form - Proposed Action (805.01 Report)
  • Business and Professions Codes §§§803, 803.5 and 803.6
• Accredited Outpatient Surgery Settings must report adverse events to the Board no later than five days after the adverse event is detected, or, if that event is an ongoing urgent or emergent threat to the health and safety of patients, personnel or visitors, not later than 24 hours after adverse event is detected.
  • Adverse Event Reporting Form for Accredited Outpatient Surgery Settings
  • Business and Professions Code §2216.3
• Reporting Transfer of Planned Out-of-Hospital Births: A hospital shall report each transfer by a licensed midwife of a planned out-of-hospital birth to the Medical Board of California and the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative.
  • Transfer of Planned Out-of-Hospital Delivery to Hospital Reporting Form
  • Business and Professions Code §2510

Reporting to Other Entities:

• Live births must be registered with the local registrar of births and deaths for the district in which the birth occurred within 10 days following the date of the event.
  • Health and Safety Code §102400
• Medical and health section data and the time of death shall be completed and attested to by the physician last in attendance, or, in some cases, by a licensed physician assistant. Physicians or licensed physician assistants in certain cases will state conditions contributing to death (except in cases to be investigated by the coroner) and the hour and day the death occurred on a certificate of death and indicate the existence of cancer.
  • Health and Safety Codes §§102795 and 102825
• Certificates of fetal death must be completed by the physician, if any in attendance, within 15 hours after the delivery.
  • Health and Safety Code §102975
• Diseases reportable by physicians, physician assistants, nurses, midwives and others in California.
  • cdph.ca.gov/Programs/PSB/Pages/CommunicableDiseaseControl
• Reportable to the local health officer for jurisdiction where patient resides.
  • Title 17 California Code of Regulations §2500
• Injuries by deadly weapon or criminal act. (Penal Code §11160) Reportable to local law enforcement.
• Child Abuse (Penal Code §§11165.7(a)(21), 11165.9, 11166(a)(c)) Reportable to local law enforcement, county probation department or county welfare department.
• Adult and Elder Abuse (Welfare and Institutions Code §15630) Reportable to local law enforcement or an adult protective service agency.
• Injuries Resulting from Neglect or Abuse (Penal Code §11161.8) Reportable to local law enforcement and the county health department.
• Lapses of Consciousness (Health and Safety Code §103900) Reportable to local health officer.
• Pesticide Poisoning and Illness (Health and Safety Code §105200) Physicians must report pesticide illnesses to the local health officer by telephone within 24 hours.
• Miscellaneous Reporting Requirements: Reporting requirements for lost or stolen controlled substances or prescription forms, reporting obligations for illegal use of your DEA number.
  • Prescription Pads 101

Additional Requirements:

• Required written information physicians must provide to patients.
  • Publications
• A Patient's Guide to Blood Transfusion (Health and Safety Code §1645)
• A Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer Treatment (Health and Safety Code §109275)
• Gynecologic Cancers...What Women Need to Know (Health and Safety Code §109278)
• Professional Therapy Never Includes Sex (Business and Professionals Code §728)

Administrative Actions: August 1, 2020 - October 31, 2020

ABOVYAN, ARMAN (A 108773), Pompano Beach, FL

Disciplined by Florida for his conviction for conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to possess, distribute and dispense controlled substances, and unlawful dispensing of the controlled substance buprenorphine. Revoked. September 11, 2020. View the decision and the order for ABOVYAN, ARMAN (A 108773) on the Board's website.

ADU-BENIAKO, SOLOMON (A 108552), Southfield, MI

Disciplined by Michigan alleging that his prescribing of controlled substances constitutes a violation of a general duty, consisting of negligence or failure to exercise due care, including negligent delegation to or supervision of employees or other individuals. Revoked. October 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for ADU-BENIAKO, SOLOMON (A 108552) on the Board's website.

AIRHART, NATHAN DAVID, M.D. (A 156571), Portland, OR

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by West Virginia for failing to comply with continuing medical education requirements, violating a statute or rule of the West Virginia Board of Medicine, providing false statements, and engaging in unprofessional conduct. October 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for AIRHART, NATHAN DAVID, M.D. (A 156571) on the Board's website.

AKERMAN, ALLAN, M.D. (A 91309), Orange, CA

Committed acts of 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 a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; prohibited from performing any care or treatment of twin pregnancies until successful completion of the clinical competence assessment program; completing an education course; obtaining a practice monitor; and submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties. September 25, 2020. Judicial Review pending. View the decision and the order for AKERMAN, ALLAN, M.D. (A 91309) on the Board's website.

ALI, MIR BAQUAR, M.D. (G 72359), Fountain Valley, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient; and failed to properly supervise a physician assistant. 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; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses, except during the conduct of surgery. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for ALI, MIR BAQUAR, M.D. (G 72359) on the Board's website.

ARELLA, SALVADOR A. (A 49797), Bell Canyon, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. October 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for ARELLA, SALVADOR A. (A 49797) on the Board's website.

ARNAZZI, HECTOR HERNANDEZ (G 40005), Torrance, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. August 14, 2020. View the decision and the order for ARNAZZI, HECTOR HERNANDEZ (G 40005) on the Board's website.

BAX, STACY JOSEPH, M.D. (A 99111), Chico, CA

No admissions but charged with using drugs in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; and convicted of one felony count of possession of a controlled substance and one misdemeanor count of possession or use of a legend drug without a prescription. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; completing an education course and an ethics course; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 14, 2020. View the decision and the order for BAX, STACY JOSEPH, M.D. (A 99111) on the Board's website.

BERRY, MICAH DIAZ, M.D. (A 110714), Grass Valley, CA

No admissions but charged with practicing while under the influence of narcotics; violated statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; unprofessional conduct; and used controlled substances in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, notification of patients of probation status; abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; completing an ethics course; 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; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for BERRY, MICAH DIAZ, M.D. (A 110714) on the Board's website.

BICKMAN, TRISTAN EMILY, M.D. (A 61840), Santa Monica, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Physician must complete an education course and a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for BICKMAN, TRISTAN EMILY, M.D. (A 61840) on the Board's website.

BICKMAN, TRISTAN EMILY, M.D. (A 61840), Santa Monica, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Physician must complete an education course and a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for BICKMAN, TRISTAN EMILY, M.D. (A 61840) on the Board's website.

BURCOGLU-ORAL, ARSINSUR DIANA (C 53111), Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

Physician has a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. September 25, 2020. View the decision and the order for BURCOGLU-ORAL, ARSINSUR DIANA (C 53111) on the Board's website.

BURGOS, IVAN (A 60370), Santa Monica, CA

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. October 16, 2020. Judicial review pending. View the decision and the order for BURGOS, IVAN (A 60370) on the Board's website.

CANCHOLA, DANIEL RAMIRO (C 54537), Irving, TX

Disciplined by Texas for engaging in Medicare fraud by ordering medically unnecessary genetic screenings for Medicare beneficiaries for whom he had conducted no evaluations. Revoked. October 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for CANCHOLA, DANIEL RAMIRO (C 54537) on the Board's website.

CAO, HUYEN LE, M.D. (G 72686), Foster City, CA

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence and one misdemeanor count of child endangerment. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; completing an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; submitting to biological fluid testing; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for CAO, HUYEN LE, M.D. (G 72686) on the Board's website.

CARRANZA, JOSE (C 51366), Kingwood, TX

Disciplined by Texas for prescribing controlled substances to an out-of-state family member with a long history of mental illness, without maintaining medical records and without monitoring compliance, usage, or efficacy. Revoked. August 7, 2020. View the decision and the order for CARRANZA, JOSE (C 51366) on the Board's website.

CHEN, TZER-HWA (A 44388), Chesterfield, MO

No admissions but was disciplined by Illinois for retiring his DEA Registration and terminated his Medicare enrollment in 2019 after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services suspended his Medicare payments based on allegations of fraud. Surrender of License. October 7, 2020. View the decision and the order for CHEN, TZER-HWA (A 44388) on the Board's website.

CHOI, DAVID DONGWOOK (A 36731), Upland, CA

Admitted to committing acts of gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Surrender of License. October 7, 2020. View the decision and the order for CHOI, DAVID DONGWOOK (A 36731) on the Board's website.

CROSS, ALISA ALLENE, M.D. (A 55002), Killeen, TX

Disciplined by Texas for prescribing controlled substances and other medications to a person with whom she had a close, personal relationship, without a demonstrated or documented immediate need; and made no admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, and failed to maintain adequate or 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, completing an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Second Amended Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for CROSS, ALISA ALLENE, M.D. (A 55002) on the Board's website.

DARDASHTI, ROYA ELIA, M.D. (G 83432), Encino, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failed to perform an appropriate physical examination and obtain a written clearance for elective cosmetic procedures, failed to provide adequate security by liability insurance, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; and administered anesthesia at an unaccredited setting in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven 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; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from performing any surgical procedure without the presence and participation of an anesthesiologist; maintaining a policy of liability insurance; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 8, 2020. View the decision and the order for DARDASHTI, ROYA ELIA, M.D. (G 83432) on the Board's website.

DEE, JULIE IRENE (A 114219), Mountain Green, UT

Disciplined by Utah for violating the terms of a diversion agreement requiring her to enter the Division's Recovery Assistant Program. Admitted to becoming addicted to fentanyl she took from her work, attempted to practice despite being physically and mentally unfit to do so, and suffers from an opiate addiction. Surrender of License. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for DEE, JULIE IRENE (A 114219) on the Board's website.

DELANEY, TERENCE JOHN, M.D. (G 73592), Los Gatos, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for departing from the standard of care by performing a wrong site injection, and failing to maintain adequate medical records. October 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for DELANEY, TERENCE JOHN, M.D. (G 73592) on the Board's website.

DELASHAW, JOHNNY BILL, JR. (G 89104), Sedona, AZ

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. October 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for DELASHAW, JOHNNY BILL, JR. (G 89104) on the Board's website.

DOCASAR, HAYDEE BEATRIZ, M.D. (C 170417), Las Vegas, NV

No admissions but charged with failing to disclose that she was convicted of trespassing in California; convicted of reckless driving with disregard for the safety of persons/property in Nevada; and reported on her California application her employer identification number instead of her social security number, which is required for licensure. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for DOCASAR, HAYDEE BEATRIZ, M.D. (C 170417) on the Board's website.

EGGE, MELISSA KELLY, M.D. (A 92826), Loma Linda, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and failed to comply with CANRA Mandatory Reporting in the care and treatment of a pediatric patient. Physician must complete an education course. Public Reprimand. September 18, 2020. View the decision and the order for EGGE, MELISSA KELLY, M.D. (A 92826) on the Board's website.

EISENBUD, ERIC ALAN, M.D. (G 27826), Denver, CO

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Colorado for failing to conform to minimal standards of acceptable medical practice. August 12, 2020. View the decision and the order for EISENBUD, ERIC ALAN, M.D. (G 27826) on the Board's website.

FARAH, BIJAN, M.D. (A 35772), Encino, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of three patients; 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 multiple 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; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for FARAH, BIJAN, M.D. (A 35772) on the Board's website.

FELDMAN, GARY S., M.D. (G 58766), Woodland Hills, CA

Convicted of battery upon an intimate partner. Physician must complete an ethics course. Public Reprimand. September 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for FELDMAN, GARY S., M.D. (G 58766) on the Board's website.

FIEDLER, MICHAEL WILLIAM (G 73536), Las Vegas, NV

Charged with repeated negligent acts by self-prescribing controlled substances. Revoked. September 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for FIEDLER, MICHAEL WILLIAM (G 73536) on the Board's website.

FOZOUNI, DERAKHSH, M.D. (A 95051), Palm Springs, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts; failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of a patient. Physician must complete an education course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; and complete a clinical competence assessment program. Public Reprimand. September 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for FOZOUNI, DERAKHSH, M.D. (A 95051) on the Board's website.

FRIEDBERG, DAVID ARI, M.D. (A 112102), Lynwood, 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 a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; and submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties. October 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for FRIEDBERG, DAVID ARI, M.D. (A 112102) on the Board's website.

FULLEMANN, SUSAN LOUISE (G 51875), Burlingame, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of her Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for FULLEMANN, SUSAN LOUISE (G 51875) on the Board's website.

FURO, HIROKO, M.D. (A 170045), East Syracuse, NY

No admissions but charged with failing to disclose on her application for licensure that Iowa issued a letter of warning for her failure to disclose unsatisfactory performance during her post graduate training and her resignation from the program. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. View the decision and the order for FURO, HIROKO, M.D. (A 170045) on the Board's website.

GAUTAM, RAVINDRA MOHARPAL, M.D. (A 56418), Barstow, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients; and self-prescribed controlled substances. Physician must complete an education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course. Public Reprimand. August 5, 2020. View the decision and the order for GAUTAM, RAVINDRA MOHARPAL, M.D. (A 56418) on the Board's website.

GEVORGYAN, ANNA R., M.D. (A 104829), Long Beach, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, failed to provide an appropriate physical examination and written clearance for the elective cosmetic surgery procedure, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; aided and abetted the unlicensed practice of medicine and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' 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; prohibited from holding a majority interest or being a sole proprietor, partner, officer, director, or manager in any business that offers elective cosmetic surgery; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Second Amended Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for GEVORGYAN, ANNA R., M.D. (A 104829) on the Board's website.

GEWIRTZ, ANDREW ELLIS, M.D. (G 63048), New York, NY

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; aided and abetted the unlicensed practice of medicine and unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete an education course, medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; and is prohibited from engaging in the corporate practice of medicine. Public Reprimand. September 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for GEWIRTZ, ANDREW ELLIS, M.D. (G 63048) on the Board's website.

GORJI, RYAN MAJD, M.D. (A 165855), Chicago, IL

No admissions but charged with being disciplined by Illinois for violating a prior agreement when he practiced cosmetic medicine by aligning himself with a medical spa and a concierge cosmetic medical practice and did not reported it to Illinois. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; obtaining a practice supervisor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 5, 2020. View the decision and the order for GORJI, RYAN MAJD, M.D. (A 165855) on the Board's website.

GRAVEN, NADINE EVADNE, M.D. (G 79068), Oceanside, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of a patient. Physician must complete an education course. Public Reprimand. September 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for GRAVEN, NADINE EVADNE, M.D. (G 79068) on the Board's website.

GREEN, ROLAND HALE, JR. (C 159465), Las Vegas, NV

Disciplined by New York for falsely representing on medical records submitted to the Medicare program, that he, among other things, performed examinations and tests on patients which he did not perform. Surrender of License. September 8, 2020. View the decision and the order for GREEN, ROLAND HALE, JR. (C 159465) on the Board's website.

GUPTA, ANIL, M.D. (A 46009), West Covina, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of a patient. Public Reprimand. August 13, 2020. View the decision and the order for GUPTA, ANIL, M.D. (A 46009) on the Board's website.

GURRALA, JOSEPH PARIMAL (C 128171), Ashburn, VA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 25, 2020. View the decision and the order for GURRALA, JOSEPH PARIMAL (C 128171) on the Board's website.

HALPERN, LISA RACHEL (G 143918), Rockville, MD

Disciplined by Maryland for failing to meet appropriate standards for the delivery of quality care and failed to keep adequate medical records. Surrender of License. September 11, 2020. View the decision and the order for HALPERN, LISA RACHEL (G 143918) on the Board's website.

HASAN, ANTHONY TAYCER, M.D. (A 69514), Miramar, FL

Reinstated. Public Reprimand. October 29, 2020. View the decision and the order for HASAN, ANTHONY TAYCER, M.D. (A 69514) on the Board's website.

HEIDENFELDER, RICHARD PAUL, M.D. (A 79836), Coronado, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of two patients; repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and dishonest acts. 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; obtaining a practice and billing monitor; prohibited from prescribing controlled substances to himself or family members; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Second Amended Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for HEIDENFELDER, RICHARD PAUL, M.D. (A 79836) on the Board's website.

HEYMAN, ANDREW HOWARD, M.D. (C 153674), Aldie, VA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Virginia for inappropriately prescribing controlled substances without a physical examination and without documenting a medical justification. October 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for HEYMAN, ANDREW HOWARD, M.D. (C 153674) on the Board's website.

HIPPENMEYER, CAROL LANGWITH, M.D. (G 77705), Tucson, AZ

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Arizona for failing to maintain adequate medical records and violating medical ethics by prescribing outside the course of professional practice and without legitimate medical purpose. August 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for HIPPENMEYER, CAROL LANGWITH, M.D. (G 77705) on the Board's website.

HIRANI, KARIMA, M.D. (G 79715), Culver City, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and excessive testing and treatment in the care and treatment of a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on two years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and an ethics course; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 30, 2020. View the decision and the order for HIRANI, KARIMA, M.D. (G 79715) on the Board's website.

HONRATH, THOMAS JOSEPH (G 30053), Sebastopol, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 17, 2020. View the decision and the order for HONRATH, THOMAS JOSEPH (G 30053) on the Board's website.

HSU, FRANK SIU-FUNG (C 39702), Castro Valley, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and incompetence in the care and treatment of a patient. Surrender of License. October 31, 2020. View the decision and the order for HSU, FRANK SIU-FUNG (C 39702) on the Board's website.

IQBAL, BABAR, M.D. (A 104410), Irvine, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. August 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for IQBAL, BABAR, M.D. (A 104410) on the Board's website.

JOHNSON, SUSAN RIDEOUT, M.D. (G 59919), Colfax, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for departing from the standard of care for the unsupported reasons for providing medical exemptions, providing an exemption to all vaccines, and lack of knowledge for providing a permanent exemption instead of a temporary exemption. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for JOHNSON, SUSAN RIDEOUT, M.D. (G 59919) on the Board's website.

KANEGAE, THOMAS HENRY, M.D. (G 25710), Los Angeles, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to maintain appropriate records and failing to document the use of medications in the care and treatment of a patient. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. October 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for KANEGAE, THOMAS HENRY, M.D. (G 25710) on the Board's website.

KASHANI, ABBAS, M.D. (A 82220), Manteca, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of a patient; repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; dishonest acts; and public communication containing a false, misleading, or deceptive statement. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 28, 2020. View the decision and the order for KASHANI, ABBAS, M.D. (A 82220) on the Board's website.

KESLER, KIMBERLY MARIE, M.D. (A 87227), Los Angeles, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by New Mexico for failing to comply with continuing medical education requirements, failing to respond to the Board's request for CME documentation, and providing false statements to the Board. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for KESLER, KIMBERLY MARIE, M.D. (A 87227) on the Board's website.

KIM, DUK HWAN (A 78546), Montebello, CA

Convicted of driving while under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and used alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Surrender of License. September 22, 2020. View the decision and the order for KIM, DUK HWAN (A 78546) on the Board's website.

KUMAR, VICTORIA ANN, M.D. (A 60124), North Hollywood, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of two patients; dishonest acts; violated statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; self-prescribed drugs in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public; prescribed controlled substances without a legitimate medical purpose; obtained prescriptions for controlled substances by fraud/deceit; knowingly making or signing a document directly related to the practice of medicine that falsely represented an existence of a statement of facts; and prescribed a controlled substance to herself. 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; abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; providing 40 hours of medical or nonmedical community services; completing an education course, prescribing practices course, and an ethics course (condition met); attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for KUMAR, VICTORIA ANN, M.D. (A 60124) on the Board's website.

MAHMOUDI, JAHANGIR, M.D. (A 29722), Yuba City, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of two patients and gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete an ethics course and an anger management course. Public Reprimand. October 23, 2020. View the decision and the order for MAHMOUDI, JAHANGIR, M.D. (A 29722) on the Board's website.

MANIOS, CHRISTOPHER ANTHONY, M.D. (A 110045), Bellaire, TX

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient; and disseminated false or misleading advertisement by making claims about his medical education, training, and experience on his website. 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; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for MANIOS, CHRISTOPHER ANTHONY, M.D. (A 110045) on the Board's website.

MASTRODIMOS, BILL, M.D. (G 76386), Rancho Santa Fe, CA

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of battery against a spouse. Admitted to unprofessional conduct for failing to provide a sample for testing, had his hospital privileges suspended, and was prohibited from seeing patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on two years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing an ethics course; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for MASTRODIMOS, BILL, M.D. (G 76386) on the Board's website.

MICHAELS, BROOKS CARLTON (G 60910), Pflugerville, TX

Admitted to failing to comply with a condition of his probation as a result of a medical disability. Surrender of License. October 1, 2020. View the decision and the order for MICHAELS, BROOKS CARLTON (G 60910) on the Board's website.

MIKHAIL, MINA NESSIM SAAD, M.D. (A 51300), Riverside, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; and failed to report a patient's health condition to the local health officer. Physician must complete a prescribing practices course, ethics course, and a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. October 23, 2020. View the decision and the order for MIKHAIL, MINA NESSIM SAAD, M.D. (A 51300) on the Board's website.

MIRCHOU, RAFAEL, M.D. (A 82119), Las Vegas, NV

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Nevada for failing to properly manage patient medical records. August 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for MIRCHOU, RAFAEL, M.D. (A 82119) on the Board's website.

MORRISON, ROBERT BRUCE (G 33727), Monrovia, 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 a patient. Surrender of License. September 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for MORRISON, ROBERT BRUCE (G 33727) on the Board's website.

NANCHERLA, ANANTH RAO, M.D. (A 36459), Arlington, VA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Virginia for failing to document an order in a patient's medical record for continuous respiratory monitoring, which resulted in the death of the patient. August 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for NANCHERLA, ANANTH RAO, M.D. (A 36459) on the Board's website.

NASSER, ANTHONY T, M.D. (A 113112), Newport Beach, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and violating the medical practice act in the care and treatment of a patient. Public Reprimand. September 9, 2020. View the decision and the order for NASSER, ANTHONY T, M.D. (A 113112) on the Board's website.

NGUYEN, QUYEN TRUNG, M.D. (C 170494), Denver, CO

Disclosed that he was removed from his employer due to ongoing unprofessional conduct demonstrated towards a female resident physician. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a professional boundaries program; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 9, 2020. View the decision and the order for NGUYEN, QUYEN TRUNG, M.D. (C 170494) on the Board's website.

NISAR, AZRA-AFREEN (A 41503), Fullerton, CA

Convicted of one count of presenting false Medi-Cal claims, one count of grand theft, seven counts of identity theft, and failed to report the convictions to the Board. Surrender of License. October 13, 2020. View the decision and the order for NISAR, AZRA-AFREEN (A 41503) on the Board's website.

PANDYA, ASHVIN C. M.D. (A 45684), Bishop, CA

No admissions but charged with sexual exploitation, dishonesty or corrupt acts, gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate or accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient; and created false medical records with fraudulent intent. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, notification of patients of probation status; completing an ethics course; completing a professional boundaries program; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; required to have a third party chaperone present while consulting, examining or treating female patients; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 13, 2020. View the decision and the order for PANDYA, ASHVIN C. M.D. (A 45684) on the Board's website.

PARMA, CAROLYN MARIE, M.D. (A 157074), Walnut Creek, CA

Convicted of reckless driving involving the use of alcohol and driving with a very high blood alcohol level. Physician must complete an ethics course. Public Reprimand. October 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for PARMA, CAROLYN MARIE, M.D. (A 157074) on the Board's website.

PATEL, JITENDRA CHUNIBHAI (A 40675), Brookings, OR

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 25, 2020. View the decision and the order for PATEL, JITENDRA CHUNIBHAI (A 40675) on the Board's website.

PETCHER, RONALD CRAIG, M.D. (C 31847), Phoenix, AZ

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Arizona for failing to identify a large abnormality on the MRI as suspicious, and failed to recommend a biopsy for the patient. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for PETCHER, RONALD CRAIG, M.D. (C 31847) on the Board's website.

RASHIDI NAIMABADI, MAHMOUD, M.D. (A 87654), Francestown, NH

Committed acts of unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for RASHIDI NAIMABADI, MAHMOUD, M.D. (A 87654) on the Board's website.

REYES, THOR-ALCYONE LOPEZ (C 38408), Moorpark, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of two patients; repeated negligent acts, incompetence, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, excessive prescribing, prescribing without an appropriate prior examination or indication, and violating drug statutes in the care and treatment of three patients. Surrender of License. October 1, 2020. View the decision and the order for REYES, THOR-ALCYONE LOPEZ (C 38408) on the Board's website.

RIOPELLE, MICHELE LOUISE (A 44768), Alamo, CA

No admissions but used alcohol in such a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public, and attempted to practice medicine while under the influence of alcohol. Surrender of License. August 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for RIOPELLE, MICHELE LOUISE (A 44768) on the Board's website.

RODRIGUEZ, CESAR ALVARO (A 66159), La Puente, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, failed to supervise a physician assistant, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Surrender of License. September 16, 2020. View the decision and the order for RODRIGUEZ, CESAR ALVARO (A 66159) on the Board's website.

RUIZ, EDWARD ANDREW, M.D. (A 104554), La Quinta, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for inappropriately refilling a prescription without conducting a follow up examination of a patient. October 2, 2020. View the decision and the order for RUIZ, EDWARD ANDREW, M.D. (A 104554) on the Board's website.

SAETRUM, BRENT BJORN (G 64189), Stockton, CA

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. September 25, 2020. View the decision and the order for SAETRUM, BRENT BJORN (G 64189) on the Board's website.

SAMPLE, THEODORE GLENN, JR., M.D. (A 46311), Wildwood, MO

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Florida for attempting to obtain a license by providing false statements. September 11, 2020. View the decision and the order for SAMPLE, THEODORE GLENN, JR., M.D. (A 46311) on the Board's website.

SARAN, NAVIN, M.D. (A 37985), Anaheim, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of a patient. Physician must complete an education course, prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. October 8, 2020. View the decision and the order for SARAN, NAVIN, M.D. (A 37985) on the Board's website.

SCHALLER, DOUGLAS ALVIN, M.D (G 61159), Tustin, CA

No admissions but charged with sexual exploitation, sexual misconduct, gross negligence, and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of a patient; gross negligence for failing to secure medications and dangerous drugs; and failed to comply with the terms of his Board-ordered probation by failing to obey all laws. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, notification of patients of probation status; maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendations or approvals to possess or cultivate marijuana; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; completing an education course, prescribing practices course (condition met), medical record keeping course (condition met), and an ethics course; completing a professional boundaries program; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation (condition met); attending psychotherapy (condition met); required to have a third party female chaperone present while consulting, examining or treating female patients; required to have a third party present while handling and reviewing patient medication boxes in any facility where they are normally in a locked and secure manner; notification of employer; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and First Amended Accusation and Petition to Revoke Probation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. September 24, 2020. View the decision and the order for SCHALLER, DOUGLAS ALVIN, M.D (G 61159) on the Board's website.

SCHMIDT, ERIC STEPHAN, M.D. (G 52901), Santa Rosa, CA

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of rebates for patient referrals and dishonest acts. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, providing 150 hours of community service; completing an ethics course; obtaining a billing monitor; prohibited from treating workers compensation patients; submitting proof of notification of Decision and First Amended Accusation to required parties. October 23, 2020. View the decision and the order for SCHMIDT, ERIC STEPHAN, M.D. (G 52901) on the Board's website.

SEVERINGHAUS, JOHN MERRILL (G 36863), Norwich, VT

Disciplined by Vermont for inadequate record keeping regarding patient care as well as failing to document rationale for prescribing and handling of non-compliant patients. Revoked. September 25, 2020. View the decision and the order for SEVERINGHAUS, JOHN MERRILL (G 36863) on the Board's website.

SHAH, HARSHAD RATILAL (A 53132), Cypress, CA

Convicted of one count of bribery of a public official. Revoked. October 23, 2020. Judicial review pending. View the decision and the order for SHAH, HARSHAD RATILAL (A 53132) on the Board's website.

SINHA, SACHCHIDA NAND, M.D. (C 39988), Fullerton, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for self-prescribing. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for SINHA, SACHCHIDA NAND, M.D. (C 39988) on the Board's website.

SMITH, BRIT O. (A 16994), Lancaster, CA

Failed to comply with his Board-ordered probation by failing to pass a clinical training program and continued to prescribe controlled substances while under a cease practice order. Surrender of License. August 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMITH, BRIT O. (A 16994) on the Board's website.

SMITH, DAVID JAMES, M.D. (G 66777), San Diego, CA

Committed acts of gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; incompetence in the care and treatment of a patient; and excessively prescribed controlled substances to three patients. 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 recommendations or approvals 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; prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing or possessing Schedule II, III, or IV drugs until completion of the clinical competence assessment program; prohibited from performing any care or treatment with patients involving the use, management or any surgical procedures related to intrathecal pumps until completion of the clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; notification of patients of probation status; submitting proof of notification of Decision and First Amended Accusation to required parties, and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 15, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMITH, DAVID JAMES, M.D. (G 66777) on the Board's website.

SMITH, GREGORY GERALD, M.D. (G 42751), Elk Grove, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to keep timely, accurate, and legible medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. October 26, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMITH, GREGORY GERALD, M.D. (G 42751) on the Board's website.

SMITH, LANE FIELDING, M.D. (A 51951), Las Vegas, NV

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being disciplined by Nevada for failing to maintain adequate medical records. August 27, 2020. View the decision and the order for SMITH, LANE FIELDING, M.D. (A 51951) on the Board's website.

SOBRAL, CARLOS A, M.D. (A 30422), Irvine, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for medical record departures regarding treatment and plan, medical history and exam, and maintaining records. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. August 19, 2020. View the decision and the order for SOBRAL, CARLOS A, M.D. (A 30422) on the Board's website.

SPIVAK, RYAN MATTHEW, M.D. (A 113632), Agoura Hills, CA

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of obtaining or possessing a controlled substance by a nonconforming prescription; and no admissions but failed to comply with multiple terms of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked stayed, placed on two years' additional probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine (condition met); 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; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; providing 40 hours of non-medical community service; completing an education course, prescribing practices course (condition met), medical record keeping course (condition met), and an ethics course; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment (condition met); obtaining a practice monitor; obtaining a worksite monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; notification of employer; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. September 11, 2020. View the decision and the order for SPIVAK, RYAN MATTHEW, M.D. (A 113632), Agoura Hills, CA on the Board's website.

THOENE, MICHAEL JOSEPH, M.D. (G 25265), El Cajon, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and self-prescribed drugs in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. 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, except for those drugs listed in Schedule V; prohibited from any recommendations or approvals to possess or cultivate marijuana; maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendations or approvals to possess or cultivate marijuana; abstaining from the use of controlled substances and alcohol; completing a prescribing practices course, education course, medical record keeping course and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; prohibited from providing medical care and treatment to family members; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; notification of patients of probation status; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 7, 2020. View the decision and the order for THOENE, MICHAEL JOSEPH, M.D. (G 25265) on the Board's website.

TRUONG, PETER TOAN, M.D. (G 71046), Mission Viejo, 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 a patient. Physician must complete an education course and a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. September 3, 2020. View the decision and the order for TRUONG, PETER TOAN, M.D. (G 71046) on the Board's website.

UWAYDAH, MUNIR (A 62059), Encino, CA

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board ordered probation. Revoked. October 21, 2020. View the decision and the order for UWAYDAH, MUNIR (A 62059) on the Board's website.

WARREN, LINDA ADELE (C 40079), Los Angeles, 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 a patient. Surrender of License. October 31, 2020. View the decision and the order for WARREN, LINDA ADELE (C 40079) on the Board's website.

WILBUR, BENJAMIN STUART (A 92956), San Bernardino, CA

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. August 7, 2020. Judicial review pending. View the decision and the order for WILBUR, BENJAMIN STUART (A 92956) on the Board's website.

WOLFE, MICHAEL BENJAMIN (A 63089), Santa Clara, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. October 12, 2020. View the decision and the order for WOLFE, MICHAEL BENJAMIN (A 63089) on the Board's website.

ZANDVLIET, TARA ALAINA, M.D. (A 71646), 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 a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; prohibited from making or issuing any written exemption from immunization, or any other written statements providing that any child is exempt from the requirements of chapter one commencing with sections 120325, 120400, 120405, 120410, and 120415 of the Health and Safety Code; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. September 4, 2020. View the decision and the order for ZANDVLIET, TARA ALAINA, M.D. (A 71646) on the Board's website.

Licensed Midwife

STOKES, TAMMY THERESA, L.M. (LM 384), Yucaipa, CA

Admits to repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of seven patients, and failure to maintain complete and accurate health care records in the care and treatment of two patents. No admissions, but charged with gross negligence in the care of seven patients. Midwife must complete an education course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course. Public Reprimand. September 24, 2020. View the decision and the order for STOKES, TAMMY THERESA, L.M. (LM 384) on the Board's website.