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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.

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If you would like a speaker from the Medical Board of California to address your organization, please contact webmaster@mbc.ca.gov.

Editor's Spotlight

By Emmalee Ross, Designer and Editor in Chief

In an effort to enhance consumer protection for Californians, the Medical Board of California (Board) sent various legislative requests to the state Legislature in early January 2022. If enacted, the Board's proposals would have a major impact on the Board, most significantly to its enforcement program. You can find a detailed summary of the many requests in the 2022 Legislative Requests article.

As mentioned in the last newsletter edition, Senate Bill 806 brought quite a few changes to the Board's Licensing Program. We want to make sure licensees have a solid understanding of what it means for their particular license. Don't miss information from the Board's Chief of Licensing in the article SB 806 Brings Licensing Changes.

This edition, we had the pleasure of chatting with the executive director, program director, and medical director of First 5 San Diego's First 5 First Steps - a program of the American Academy of Pediatrics supporting kids and families during the early stages of a child's life. Physicians - find out how you can partner with programs like First 5 First Steps in your own community; and parents - local assistance and county programs are available to provide incredible support. Learn more from experts in the article First 5 First Steps: Bringing Hope to Families in Need.

President's Message

By Kristina D. Lawson

As we welcome spring in California, I am pleased to provide news about recent developments at the Medical Board of California (Board). This year, the Board has continued to advocate for legislative priorities that will improve the Board's processes and help ensure we achieve our mission of consumer protection.

In early January, the Board sent a memorandum to the state Legislature requesting several changes that my colleagues and I believe will provide the financial resources and enforcement tools necessary to meet our consumer protection mission. Of particular importance, the various proposals will help the Board to complete its investigations and discipline licensees in a timelier manner.

Since the memo was delivered, the Board's staff worked to find authors for the various legislative proposals.

I am pleased to share, that in response to the Board's memo, the following bills were introduced earlier this year and include provisions that further the Board's goals:

• Assembly Bill (AB) 1767 (Boerner Horvath) - establishes the California Board of Licensed Midwifery.
• AB 2060 (Quirk) - changes the composition of the Board from physician-member majority to public-member majority.
• Senate Bill (SB) 920 (Hurtado) - facilitates Board investigator's access to medical and pharmacy records.

Find more information on these requests in the next article of this edition, 2022 Legislative Proposals and in the 2022 Legislative Request.

As these proposals advance through the legislative process, the Board looks forward to working with the state Legislature, the Governor's Administration, and other stakeholders to improve the Board's work and support its mission of consumer protection for all Californians.

2022 Legislative Proposals

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer in collaboration with MBC Staff

Consumer protection is the Medical Board of California's (Board) mission. In an effort to strengthen its consumer-protection, the Board recently petitioned the California State Legislature with the Board's approved 2022 legislative requests.

Since the Board's authority is derived from statute, it often must seek approval from the State Legislature and Governor to make improvements that will enhance consumer protection.

Among its various requests, the Board is seeking to increase physician and surgeon licensure fees, change the evidentiary standard for prosecuting cases, establish a public Board member majority, and ease access to medical and pharmacy records necessary for its investigations.

Increasing Licensure Fees

To meet its consumer protection mission and perform the functions required by law, the Board must have adequate financial resources. With the implementation of Senate Bill (SB) 806, on January 1, 2022, Board licensing fees were increased for the first time in 15 years, but not sufficiently to address its budget deficit and a rapidly depleting reserve fund. SB 806 requires the Legislature to review the Board's revenue and expenditures in 2022 to determine if there's a need for additional increases.

The Board continues to request that the Legislature increase physician and surgeon (P&S) initial licensure and renewal fees from $863 to $1,150, as recommended by an independent review in 2020, to obtain financial sustainability. The vast majority of the Board's funding comes from P&S fees, so an additional increase is necessary to meet the Board's needs.

Changing the Evidentiary Standard to Preponderance of Evidence

In comparison to other medical boards across the country, the Board is at a significant disadvantage when investigating and prosecuting licensees who fail to meet the standard of care or otherwise act unprofessionally.

Under California law, the Board must obtain "clear and convincing proof to a reasonable certainty," to prove that disciplinary action is warranted. According to the Board's legislative request, this is a higher burden of proof than in 41 other jurisdictions throughout the US which generally apply a "preponderance of evidence" standard - defined as "evidence that shows it is more likely than not that a fact is true."

As a result, prosecuting instances of unprofessional conduct is more difficult, time consuming, and expensive in California, when compared to most other states. Therefore, the Board asks the Legislature to change the law so that the Board may discipline a licensee when a violation is proven by a preponderance of evidence.

Public Board Member Majority

The Board has come under increasing scrutiny by the Legislature and other stakeholders, many of whom express concern about the Board's priorities and commitment to its mission. The Board is hopeful that changing from a P&S-member majority to a public-member majority will be a significant step to restore public trust in its processes and priorities.

To this end, the Board collaborated with Assembly member Bill Quirk (D-Hayward), who introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 2060, which if signed into law would reduce the total number of P&S Board members by one, and increase the number of public members by one.

Increased Access to Records

The Board put forth multiple proposals seeking law changes that will help the Board obtain medical and pharmacy records that are typically needed in its investigations. If enacted into law, these proposals are expected to expedite the process of evaluating complaints, along with the following:

• Pause the statute of limitations when the Board must enforce a lawfully served subpoena in superior court.
• Grant the Board enhanced authority to inspect medical records held by a physician.
• Ensure pharmacy records are provided in a timelier manner.
• Require patient records be retained for at least seven years, to align with statute of limitation requirements.

To review the requests brought before the Legislature by the Board, please visit our Laws and Regulations webpage or email webmaster@mbc.ca.gov for questions.

MBC Email Address Update

Beginning July 1, 2022, MBC applicants and licensees are required to provide an email address to the Board according to Business and Professions Code 2021 (d). The email address is confidential and not subject to public disclosure.

First 5 First Steps: Creating Hope for Families in Need

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

Doctors become doctors because they want to help people. It's usually that simple. They have a compassion and an empathy for others that drive their careers.

Oftentimes, however, there's only so much undivided attention and advice physicians can offer patients. When a patient or family needs more assistance, guidance, and care, physician partnerships with essential programs can be life changing.

"Tell them we are here," says Alethea Arguilez with a hopeful smile, the executive director of First 5 San Diego, which is part of a statewide organization with deep roots in assisting California families and infants through the formative years of a child's life. "If a person comes in and she's pregnant, that doctor knows her history, concerns about nutrition, and access to resources. I hope the doctor sees us as a true partner."

First 5 San Diego is one of 58 local organizations through First 5 California, promoting the health and well-being of children during the most critical years of development, ages zero to five - designed to bridge the gap between doctor visits and home life.

Arguilez, whose passion and career revolve around early childhood education, has been with First 5 San Diego for four years. She's spent her life, however, dedicated to working with families, bringing awareness of the importance of early childhood development, and now works to advocate for systems change and legislation.

"It's not just saying that the first five years are important, if you learn how much of a child's brain develops in the first five years, to me, and for those of us in this field, it's a no brainer to ensure all children have a healthy start in life," Arguilez says. "You would think our society would value that."

In an effort to positively change the lives of San Diego families, First 5 San Diego created First 5 First Steps (First Steps) in 2013, a voluntary program that annually connects 650 families - expectant parents and parents with infants - with highly trained professionals to support them through life's ups and downs.

"I think our hope is beautifully simple," says Kim Thomas, First Step's project director. "At the heart of it, it's about parents being equipped to raise happy, healthy children."

Since the program's inception, low-income families, military families, teen-aged parents, and immigrants and refugees have found tremendous assistance through First Steps. While each is a distinct population with unique needs, there is one thing they have in common.

"There's a similar theme of needing social support," says Thomas, who believes all families are a good fit for the program regardless of income or health status. "Our staff meet parents where they're at, in a non-judgmental ‘take families as they are' approach - and that's important."

The First Steps specialists who work with San Diego families are highly trained to assist families with issues surrounding social determinants of health, child development, emotional development, parent-child relationships, and parental coping strategies.

"I want to be specific about the term we use, we call them family support specialists," says Dr. Pradeep Gidwani, the program's medical director. "A lot of times they're called home visitors, but we're not visiting homes, it's very relationship based."

Together, family support specialists and parents talk about the parent's hopes and goals, how to make learning fun for their kids, and how to use positive parenting strategies. They connect families to doctors, community programs, and resources - teaching parents stress-management techniques and ways to strengthen their communication within the family.

First Steps work with families prenatally as studies have shown that early family intervention results in a better outcome later in life.

"As a pediatrician, we would love to be able to do parent education like this, we would love to have this time - that's the beauty of this program," says Gidwani, exuding enthusiasm. "This type of support is truly transformational."

Arguilez, Gidwani, and Thomas all share the belief that giving children and families a better start is the catalyst for multigenerational intervention, meaning, it will positively alter the life course of their children, their children's children, and generations to come.

"I don't want to see more prisons built," says Arguilez, who hopes to see more money come into early childhood development where the return on investment is proven to be significant. "When parents have access to the resources to strengthen and support their families, society will need less prisons, less child welfare, and less downstream and intervention later in life."

What does this mean for physicians? Thomas longs for active partnership, making referrals to First Steps and programs like First Steps in their own counties and communities.

"We're not the only network like ours, we're part of a system of care for young children," says Thomas, whose program follows the Healthy Families America model. "They may have different names in different communities, but there are others that have the same caliber of programming."

As a pediatrician, Gidwani knows first-hand there's only so much a physician can do from the office within the scope of an appointment. He believes the best way to strengthen a parent-child relationship is at home, focusing on supporting both the parent and their child.

"A parent that is confident in their competence, is a very different parent," says Gidwani. "This is the way we really maximize human potential, it's magical to see a parent who is enjoying their child."

***

First 5 California partners with the 58 First 5 county commissions to serve California's diverse populations. Whether you're a physician looking to make a referral, or a family in need, find your local program here.

FIRST 5 FIRST STEPS

First 5 First Steps (First Steps) is funded by First 5 San Diego and supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3. First Steps is a family support program that provides home visiting services for pregnant women and families to promote positive parenting and enhance child health and development. These services are offered over the long term to prepare children to enter school as active learners and ensure all children are healthy, loved, and nurtured. Visit https://firststepssd.org for more information.

Medical Board Chat Podcast

Did You Know?

The Medical Board of California (Board) has its very own podcast where we chat all things from new and changing legislation, to one-on-one interviews with Board management and Board members.

You can check out the episodes we currently have published on our website, and sign up for the Subscriber Alerts "News" topic to be updated when a new podcast episode is released.

New! Print Your Wallet License

The Medical Board of California (Board) has developed a "Print Your Own" Wallet License Generator that allows individuals, with licenses in Current status, to generate their own Wallet License and print it wherever they have access to a printer.

Benefits:

• License Specific QR Code allowing interested parties to instantly view DCA Search License Profile page with real-time status information from any QR Code capable device,
• Available immediately, versus the 4-6 weeks previously required to receive plastic cards,
• Wallet License is generated as an electronic PDF file that can be sent to employers or others as needed,
• Saves the Board resources related to the generating, printing, and mailing of plastic cards.

The plastic cards are being phased out in the first half of 2022. You may still receive a plastic card prior to the discontinuation of the process but we want to advise all eligible licensees of this service. To generate your own Wallet License, please use the link below to access the generator from our website: Medical Board of California Wallet Card Generator

Consumer Corner: An Overview of the Complaint Process

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

You asked, we listened. In the February 2022, Medical Board of California (Board) Board Meeting, a public commenter asked for an overview of the complaint process, and we are happy to share information.

While each complaint received is unique and reviewed on a case-by-case basis, the Board follows a process in conjunction with the law. Let's dive in.

To start, the Board regulates the licenses of allopathic physicians and surgeons (MDs), licensed midwives, polysomnographic technicians, trainees and technologists, and research psychoanalysts. This means a complaint filed against a nurse, osteopathic physician and surgeon, physician assistant or other health care practitioner is referred to the appropriate licensing board for review.

The Board receives over 10,000 complaints each year - these can come from a variety of sources, including, but not limited to, patients, family members of patients, insurance companies, mandated reports, the media, other state licensing boards, law enforcement agencies, and other healthcare practitioners.

The first stop for initial intake and review is the Board's Central Complaint Unit, also known as CCU. Here, CCU staff performs an initial triage to determine if the complaint falls within the Board's jurisdiction.

What does it mean to fall within the Board's jurisdiction? Simply that it is a matter within our authority to address.

The following types of complaints are within the Board's jurisdiction:

• Quality of Care - misdiagnosis, treatment/medication causing side effects, surgical complications, incompetent or negligent care, inappropriate prescribing, etc.
• Office Practice - failure to sign a death certificate or failure to provide records
• Provider Impairment - under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or mental or physical impairment
• Sexual Misconduct
• Unlicensed Activity - aiding and abetting unlicensed practice, unlicensed provider

Non-jurisdictional complaints include complaints filed against any professional not regulated by the Board (e.g., nurse, osteopathic physician and surgeon, physician assistant), billing or fee disputes, general business practices, office policies, demeanor/attitude of the physician and surgeon or their staff, and appointment times and personal conflicts (unless the behavior interferes with the safe delivery of health care). In Fiscal Year 2020-2021, 42 percent of the 10,030 complaints closed by CCU were non-jurisdictional. This means 4,183 complaints were closed within a few weeks of the Board's receipt and forwarded to the relevant board or licensing agency.

Once the complaint is filed, you will receive confirmation of receipt from the Board within 10 days of filing.

In the initial review, CCU gathers medical records, a response from the medical provider in question, and other pertinent information necessary to determine if a violation of the law occurred.

If staff needs additional information from you, the enforcement analyst will send a letter requesting the information needed (releases, clarification of specific allegations, etc.). This letter also introduces the complainant to the enforcement analyst assigned to the complaint. If the Board does not need additional information from the complainant, a separate letter is sent introducing the enforcement analyst to the complainant.

With quality-of-care cases, if CCU determines there is sufficient evidence, the complaint is sent to a medical consultant (a well-qualified licensee employed by or contracted with the Board to determine if a formal investigation is needed) for a thorough review, and you will be notified by mail and email (if an email address is provided).

If a violation is not found, or there is not enough evidence to warrant further investigation, the complaint is closed, and you will be notified by mail and email (if provided).

However, if the medical consultant finds sufficient evidence that a violation may have occurred, the complaint is referred to the Division of Investigation, Health Quality Investigation (HQIU) - within the Department of Consumer Affairs. Urgent cases - such as sexual misconduct or licensee impairment - are referred immediately for investigation. HQIU investigators are sworn peace officers and have authority to pursue violations of the law.

You will get an additional written notification by mail and email (if provided) if your complaint is referred to HQIU and may be asked for further information. This process of the investigation is quite thorough and typically takes a significant amount of time to determine if a violation occurred by "clear and convincing evidence" consistent with due process of the law.

After HQIU investigation, if the Board finds disciplinary action is not warranted or the allegations cannot be proven, the case is closed, and you will be notified by mail.

However, if the evidence shows a violation of the Medical Practice Act or other laws that warrant discipline against the licensee, the investigation is forwarded to the state Attorney General's Office (AGO) for review. If the AGO determines that they can prove a violation of the law occurred by clear and convincing evidence, then they will prepare an accusation for the Board to file. An accusation is a formal legal document identifying the allegations against the medical provider, and is a public document, once filed. If your case is forwarded to the AGO, you will receive a letter from the Board informing you of the update. You will also be notified by mail if an accusation is filed, or if the complaint is closed following AGO review.

After an accusation is filed, the licensee in question can defend themselves and provide evidence that they did not violate the law. Most of the time, for cases that reach this stage of the enforcement process, the Board will come to a settlement with the licensee regarding the case, provided a panel of Board members agrees that the settlement is appropriate given the various facts and circumstances involved in the case, and provided the settlement affords sufficient consumer protection and complies with the requirements of the law.

The Board must be able to prove its case at hearing by "clear and convincing evidence to a reasonable certainty," which is a relatively high burden of proof. Due to the burden of proof required to be proven at a hearing, the Board's investigations are often lengthy and thorough - cases often take several months, and in some circumstances, a licensee can be prohibited from practice while the investigation proceeds.

This typically occurs when the Board's investigation yields evidence the public would be in imminent danger should the physician continue practicing. The Board may petition the court for an interim suspension order to prevent the physician from practicing while charges are pending.

A licensee can also be prevented from practicing while under investigation when a criminal court judge grants a Penal Code 23 order, which is typically granted during criminal court proceedings against a physician.

If a case proceeds to a hearing, you may be called to testify. Please note, it is rare for a complainant or patient to be called to testify at hearing, in most cases, the charges must be proven through medical expert testimony. Following conclusion of the case, you will be notified by the Board whether the final accusation was withdrawn, dismissed, or if discipline was imposed.

The Board provides many helpful tools on how to file a complaint and the Board's CCU and enforcement processes:

• Consumers Webpage
• MBC Resources Webpage
• MBC Enforcement Webpage
• Enforcement Flowchart
• Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Annual Report

New! Address Change Update

Due to security concerns, the Medical Board of California is no longer accepting paper change of address/e-mail forms. You may change your address online through the BreEze system. Initial license applicants may contact their assigned reviewer to request an address/e-mail change. If you have any questions, please send an e-mail to webmaster@mbc.ca.gov or call (800) 633-2322.

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 Hugo Estrada 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
• Otolaryngology
• Pain Medicine
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Plastic Surgery
• Radiation Oncology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery

Partner Updates: The California Department of Public Health's Food and Drug Branch Needs Your Input

By The California Department of Public Health

Approximately 23,005 emergency room visits are associated with dietary supplement use in the U.S. each year. The California Department of Public Health's (CDPH) Food and Drug Branch is asking California physicians to take an anonymous, 5-minute survey to help reduce the number of adverse effects related to dietary supplements in 2022. Your participation is extremely valuable and will contribute to the development of educational materials that may benefit your practice and your patients. CDPH intends to share the survey results with MBC licensees in a future newsletter edition.

Take the survey.

Partner Updates: Ongoing Reports of Disseminated Gonococcal Infection in CA Prompt Updated Screening Recommendations

By The California Department of Public Health

he California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released a new letter reminding healthcare providers of the continued increase in cases of disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) in California. Based on the epidemiology of gonorrhea and DGI in the state, CDPH now recommends gonorrhea screening for all sexually active individuals who use illicit drugs, especially methamphetamine.

Healthcare providers should also increase their suspicion for DGI among sexually active individuals who report any of the following: pain and swelling at a single or multiple joints, arthralgias (including migratory polyarthralgias), and/or a petechial or pustular rash consistent with DGI. Please note, gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that must be reported to your local health department.

For more details, please see CDPH Dear Colleague Letter - Ongoing Reports of Disseminated Gonococcal Infection in CA Prompt Updated Screening Recommendations (2/1/22).

Partner Updates: California Prenatal Screening Program Changes: Moving to cfDNA

By The California Department of Public Health

The California Prenatal Screening (PNS) Program* will begin offering cfDNA screening to all pregnant Californians later in 2022. Moving to first-tier cfDNA screening will raise the quality of prenatal screening for the entire California population for three common trisomies at an affordable price. To stay abreast of PNS Program changes, sign up for the e-newsletter or visit our website.

Register for our first webinar, cfDNA Screening: A Clinical Overview, on April 18 at 5 pm.

*The PNS Program is designed to make prenatal screening for a handful of birth defects available to our large and very diverse population at an affordable price. We are unique in providing follow-up prenatal diagnostic services to those individuals whose screening indicates an increased risk for certain birth defects. California offers prenatal screening as part of a statewide public health program.

Partner Updates: Call to Expand HIV/Syphilis Testing for Pregnant Women

By The California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released a new letter reminding healthcare providers of the continued increase in cases of disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) in California. Based on the epidemiology of gonorrhea and DGI in the state, CDPH now recommends gonorrhea screening for all sexually active individuals who use illicit drugs, especially methamphetamine.

Healthcare providers should also increase their suspicion for DGI among sexually active individuals who report any of the following: pain and swelling at a single or multiple joints, arthralgias (including migratory polyarthralgias), and/or a petechial or pustular rash consistent with DGI. Please note, gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that must be reported to your local health department.

For more details, please see CDPH Dear Colleague Letter - Ongoing Reports of Disseminated Gonococcal Infection in CA Prompt Updated Screening Recommendations (2/1/22).

SB 806 Created Significant Licensing Changes Already in Effect

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

If you applied for a postgraduate training license (PTL) or a physician's and surgeon's (P&S) license in the last few months with the Medical Board of California (Board), you may have noticed a few changes.

On January 1, 2022, Senate Bill (SB) 806 went into effect, bringing many changes for the Board, and particularly the Board's Licensing Program.

In a recent webinar posted to the Board's YouTube page, the Board's Chief of Licensing, Marina O'Connor, discusses the legislative changes for the Licensing Program, along with background information on the application process, and a Q&A with licensees and applicants.

Here are the major changes affecting the Licensing Program.

Changes to Licensure Requirements:

• Residents are authorized to obtain a P&S license after receiving credit for either 12 months (for graduates of U.S. or Canadian medical schools) or 24 months (for graduates of international medical schools) of board-approved postgraduate training (PGT). Training must be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, or The College of Family Physicians of Canada.
• Medical school graduates who enroll in a California ACGME-accredited PGT program will still be required to obtain a PTL within 180 days of their enrollment.

In addition, PTL's may be issued up to 15 months (for U.S. and Canadian medical school graduates) or 27 months (for international medical school graduates) to allow PTL holders to continue training in their California PGT program while transitioning to a P&S license. The Board is authorized to extend these timeframes, within its discretion, to allow the PTL holder to receive the PGT credit required for licensure.

Changes to P&S License Renewal Requirements:

• Before a P&S licensee, who received their initial license on or after January 1, 2022, may renew their license for the first time (24 months after issuance), they will be required to show evidence of receiving credit for 36 months of Board-approved PGT, which includes successful progression through 24 months in the same program. The law allows the Board to grant residents an additional 60 days to meet this requirement. Those who do not provide the required documentation up to 60 days after their license expiration date will have their license placed in delinquent status and be unable to practice medicine in California.

Fee Increases:

In recent years, the Board's expenditures have exceeded its revenue, causing the need for increased application, initial licensure, and renewal fees effective January 1, 2022.

• PTL Application fee and the P&S Application fee both increased from $442 to $625*Initial P&S License fee increased from $783 to $863*
• P&S Renewal fee increased from $783 to $863*

* Fee increases do not include the $25 Steven M. Thompson Loan Repayment mandatory fee or the $22 Controlled Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES) fee.

For more detailed information, watch the MBC Changes to Licensing Requirements Webinar or review the changes on the Board's SB 806 webpage.

Questions regarding these updates can be emailed to Licensing.Questions@mbc.ca.gov.

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
• Cardiology
• Clinical Genetics
• Colon/Rectal Surgery
• Dermatology
• Family Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Hematology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Neurological Surgery
• Neurology
• Obstetrics and Gynecology (with added expertise in Gynecologic Oncology)
• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Pediatric Endocrinology
• 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

Physician Extortion Scam from Fake Board Reps and DEA Agents

The Medical Board of California (Board) is aware that scam artists posing as U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents or Board staff are calling California physicians as part of an extortion scheme. The scammers identify themselves as DEA agents or Board staff calling about ongoing investigations regarding their license issued by the Board. Scammers may tell victims their license is suspended for illegal drug trafficking, and the suspension means they will not be able to practice. The scammers may provide an "Agreement for the Bond and Protocols" that includes statements that licensees are not to share or disclose the investigation to any third party and agree to a bond fee payment of $25,000.00. The scammers' phone number may show up as the Board's toll-free number (800) 633-2322. Please note, DEA agents or Board staff will never contact physicians by telephone to demand money or any other form of payment. If you receive a call such as the one described, refuse the demand for payment. Please also consider the following: If the caller is stating they are from the DEA, immediately report the threat using the DEA's Extortion Scam Online Reporting form. If the caller insists that they speak with you right away, tell them that you'll call them back directly. At this point, some scammers will offer you a phone number as a way to verify they are who they say they are. Don't call this number, use the Board' toll-free number at (800) 633-2322. If the phone number of the caller appears to be the Board's toll-free number, it is recommended that you submit an online complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) using the FCC's Consumer Complaint form.

Administrative Actions: August 1, 2021 - October 31, 2021

Physicians and Surgeons

ADAMS, ANNE M., M.D. (G 57672), FAIR OAKS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to gross negligence, committed acts of repeated negligence, incompetence, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; and violated or attempted to violate the Medical Practice Act. Revoked, stayed, placed on three (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; and prohibited from making or issuing any written exemption from immunization, or any other written statements providing that any child is exempt from the requirements. August 26, 2021.

AL QAISI, YAKDAN TAHA AHMED, M.D. (A 88720), NORTHRIDGE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient; performed surgery and administered anesthesia in an unaccredited surgery center; violated liposuction extraction and postoperative care standards; failed to provide adequate security by liability insurance. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor. September 30, 2021.

ALBERT, BRUCE MARK, M.D. (G 40650), NEWPORT BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine, repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of multiple patients and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on three (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course, obtaining a practice monitor. September 30, 2021.

ALLEN, ANTHONY EDWARD, M.D. (A 73148), BERKELEY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with self-prescribed drugs, 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 (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing a prescribing practices course and an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment. September 22, 2021.

ANNABLE, JOHN WILLIAM (C 30935), REDONDO BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. August 10, 2021.

ANOUS, MAHER M., M.D. (C 55037), BEVERLY HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with Gross Negligence, Repeated Negligent Acts, Unprofessional Conduct, and Inaccurate and Inadequate Record Keeping. Revoked. August 25, 2021.

ANTONEVICH, IVAN (A 80651), NEW HARTFORD, NY, DECISION AND ORDER

Based upon discipline imposed by New York for unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. August 12, 2021.

BAILEY, CRAIG, M.D. (C 158468), MARINA DEL REY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Michigan for inappropriately prescribing controlled substances and failing to comply with the standard of care for multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course, obtaining a practice monitor. September 23, 2021.

BEACH, CRAIG AARON (C 149908), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 22, 2021.

BELK, DAVID LEONARD (A 66844), ALAMEDA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but physician was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribing without an appropriate examination and medical indication, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records. Surrender of License. September 30, 2021.

BENJAMIN, ZAN (A 54540), ANAHEIM HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Physician admits the truth of each and every charge and allegation of dishonesty or corruption and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. October 4, 2021.

BERMAN, PAUL H. (G 12381), SOQUEL, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Physician has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. September 23, 2021.

BHARATWAL, BIPIN (A 84921), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 2266 and 2408 for deviating from the standard of care in that his medical record keeping was inadequate with regard to periodic review and modifications in treatment and documentation of history and physical examination supporting high dose opioid prescriptions. In addition, he continued to work at a clinic for a time after the medical director had departed. August 5, 2021.

BHATT, MRUNAL, (A 84457), IRVINE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely, using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public, and violated statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, notification to 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; abstaining from the use of alcohol; 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; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Bhatt's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 18, 2021.

BOONE, GARY KENNETH (G 31968), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 2234(b) and 2234(c) for deviating from the standard of care in that he gave permanent vaccine exemptions to two minor patients based on reported vaccine reactions that he did not confirm. September 16, 2021.

BRAR, GURMAIL SINGH, M.D. (A 63688), YUBA CITY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, excessive prescribing, prescribing controlled substances without an appropriate exam, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of six patients. Physician must complete a clinical competence assessment program, medical record keeping course and prescribing practices course. Public Reprimand. October 8, 2021.

BROWNFIELD, JOSEPH ROBERT (A 90488), NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Based upon discipline imposed by Florida for unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. October 28, 2021.

BUNGER, DEBRA LYNNE, M.D, (A 49526), OWENSBORO, KY, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with self-prescribing controlled substances. Public Reprimand. October 8, 2021.

CASTILLO, GREGORY (A 53294), VAN NUYS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but physician was charged with sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records. Surrender of License. October 26, 2021.

CAZARES, JUAN LUIS (A164721), WHITTIER, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 7, 2021.

CHATTEN-BROWN, JUSTIN R., M.D. (A 94010), WOODLAND, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course and an ethics course. Public Reprimand. September 22, 2021.

CHEN, EMERY LEE, M.D. (A 82839), PALMDALE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2266 for deviating from the standard of care in the documentation of the history and physical, evaluation, and treatment of a patient with acute appendicitis. October 14, 2021.

COHEN, RANDALL SCOTT, M.D, (C 55835), AUBURN, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with conviction of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions or duties of a Physician or Surgeon, use of alcohol in a dangerous manner, violation of the state medical practice act, and unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete a professionalism program. Public Reprimand. October 8, 2021.

DALHOUMI, HABIB, M.D. (A 82095), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care of and treatment of three patients; excessively prescribed controlled substances to three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on (4) years' probation. Terms and conditions included, but are not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any recommendations of approvals to possess or cultivate marijuana; providing 80 hours of medical or non-medical community service; completing an education course; a prescribing practices course; medical record keeping course; and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification Decision and Accusation to all required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practices nurses. October 8, 2021.

DAVIS, SCOTT HAMILTON, M.D. (A 83497), PISMO BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; gross negligence and committed acts of repeated negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; knowingly making or signing a document directly related to the practice of medicine that falsely represented an existence of a statement of facts; created false medical records with fraudulent intent; prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication; violated statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; prescribed controlled substances without a legitimate medical purpose; created false/fictitious prescription for controlled substances; dishonest or corrupt acts; and physician has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, maintain 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; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing a prescribing practices course and an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; prohibited from providing medical care or prescribing any controlled substance or dangerous drug to any members of Dr. Davis' family, including extended family; notice of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; and obtaining a worksite monitor. September 23, 2021.

DE BLANCHE, LORRAINE EMMA (C 157653), DALLAS, TX, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Arkansas for felony conviction for obstructing telemedicine investigation. Surrender of License. October 5, 2021.

>DEBURGHGRAEVE, CORY ROBERT, M.D. (A 174801), CHICAGO, IL, DECISION AND ORDER

Disclosed on his application that he was diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder, Cannabis Use Disorder, Stimulant Use Disorder, and Hypnotic Use Disorder, and was placed on suspension by his residency program for failing a drug/alcohol screening, which also resulted in a period of probation. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Probationary license issued, placed on five years' probation until the anticipated end date of 02/11/2027. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, notification to patients of probation status; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation (shall not engage in the practice of medicine until notified by the Board or its designee that Dr. Deburghgraeve is fit to practice medicine safely); notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; attending psychotherapy; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Deburghgraeve's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. September 3, 2021.

DICK, ARTHUR L. (A 20825), HEMET, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, violation of state statute or regulation regulating drugs, prescribing dangerous drugs or controlled substances, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and violation of provisions of the Medical Practice Act. Surrender of License. October 26, 2021.

DUONG, TUOC KHONG, M.D. (A 88590), WESTMINSTER, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient; convicted of two misdemeanors, one count of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; completing an education course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor. October 7, 2021.

EBERT, WILLIAM KENNETH, M.D. (G 77739), SANTA CRUZ, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Violated the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. October 27, 2021.

FARAH, DANNY FARAZ, M.D. (A 72189), TARZANA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2021(c) and 2234(a) for deviating from the standard of care in that he legally changed his name on December 18, 2020, however, failed to notify the Board within 30 days of the name change and began using his new name without Board approval. October 5, 2021.

FERNANDO, JOSEPH PREMALAL, M.D. (C 167381), POPLAR BLUFF, MO, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Arkansas for sexually molesting a child who was his patient. Revoked. September 30,2021.

FOSTER, TERRANCE JAMES, M.D. (G 38904), CHICO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients, excessively prescribed controlled substances to five patients, and unprofessional conduct. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation until the anticipated end date of 08/26/2026.Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances in Schedules II, III, and IV, and prohibited from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval 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; completing a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Foster's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 27, 2021.

GAJENDRAN, VISHAL KASHYAP, M.D. (A 157176), LOMA LINDA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; violated statutes regulating dangerous or controlled substances; and dishonest or corrupt acts. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven (7) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, notification to patients of probation status; sixty (60) day actual suspension from the practice of medicine beginning on the effective date of this Decision; maintain 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; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an education course and an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; obtaining a practice monitor. October 1, 2021.

GIBSON, JOY ELAINE, M.D. (A 174733), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Disclosed on her application that she had unusual circumstances during training and has been under care of treating professionals for a condition that may impair her ability to practice medicine safely. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation until the anticipated end date of 08/30/2024. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, attending psychotherapy; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Gibson's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 31, 2021.

GOLDBERG, JAY MITCHELL, M.D. (A 64476), BEVERLY HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2234(b) for deviating from the standard of care in that there was no indication to use a vacuum; and failure to obtain proper consent from the patient for a midline episiotomy procedure. August 10, 2021.

GOMER, DHARMAKUMAR WILSON, M.D. (A 50690), SAN BERNARDINO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor. October 1, 2021.

GORDON, STEPHEN WINSLOW, M.D. (G 155995), Las Vegas, NV, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with being disciplined by Nevada for malpractice that resulted in the death of a patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course and an education course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor. October 1, 2021.

GOYAL, HARI OM, M.D. (A 65439), YUBA CITY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with committing repeated negligent acts and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients, and unprofessional conduct. Public Reprimand. September 24, 2021.

GRACIA, GERALD JUNIOR, M.D. (A 108980), LONG BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with a conviction of a substantially related crime, use of alcoholic beverages in a dangerous manner, and unprofessional conduct. Public Reprimand. September 3, 2021.

GRUBER, ALLEN GEORGE, M.D. (G 55246), SANTA ROSA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of three patients and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on four (4) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor. October 1, 2021.

HARPER, DAN ORVILLE, M.D. (C 51231), SOLANA BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with committing repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of multiple patients and unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete an education course and is prohibited from making or issuing any written exemption from immunization, or any other written statements providing that any child is exempt from the requirements. Public Reprimand. October 01, 2021.

HARRIS, AUSTIN BRENDLEN, M.D. (A 115606), GRANADA HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public, and was convicted of a misdemeanor, one count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor. September 24, 2021.

HILTNER, RICHARD EUGENE, M.D. (G 23982), OJAI, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admission but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on four (4) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; prohibited from writing vaccine exemptions for any individual; and obtaining a practice monitor. August 18, 2021.

HUANES, CARLOS JULIO, M.D. (C 50399), CLOVIS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 2234(a) and 2266 for deviating from the standard of care in that he failed to administer the correct drug in the care and treatment of two patients; and failed to maintain adequate and accurate records in the care and treatment of one patient. August 2, 2021.

IBRAHIM, HESHAM SALEH (PTCN 695), PALMDALE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admission but charged with committing acts of dishonesty and/or fraud, multiple criminal convictions, and failing to disclose criminal convictions on a license renewal application. Revoked. September 17, 2021.

INGHAM, MAXINE B., M.D. (C 42144), LAS VEGAS, NV, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2234 and 2266 for deviating from the standard of care in that she failed to perform, or failed to document performing, an adequate medical history in the care and treatment of a patient. October 14, 2021.

IQBAL, BABAR (A 104410), Irvine, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a physician and surgeon, dishonesty or corruption, revocation or suspension of a license based on insurance fraud and worker's compensation fraud, and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. August 10, 2021.

KAO, DAVID PETER, M.D. (A 87967), DENVER, CO, DECISION AND ORDER

No admission but was charged with being disciplined by Colorado for having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven (7) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are 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; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; and obtaining a worksite monitor. August 12, 2021.

KASHANI, ABBAS, M.D. (A 82220), MANTECA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and failed to maintain adequate and accurate records in the care and treatment of three patients; repeated negligent acts and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation to run concurrent to the start date of his current probation until anticipated end date of 08/27/2025. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, all terms and conditions in the current probation, and 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; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation, complying with Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Kashani's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 19, 2021.

KEMPRUD, EDMUND PETER (G 28372), DUBLIN, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but physician was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and aiding unlawful practice of medicine. Surrender of License. October 25, 2021.

KHALID, SHAHPER (A 49816), RIVERSIDE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. October 6, 2021.

KOBLIN, ROBERT (G 7117), BEVERLY HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2234(c) for deviating from the standard of care in that he inappropriately prescribed Lorazepam to a patient between 2015 through 2017. October 19, 2021.

KRICKL, STEPHEN PATRICK (G 62551), WINDSOR, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 28, 2021.

LI, KUN LINDA (A 72250), CHICAGO, IL, DECISION AND ORDER

Violated the terms and conditions of her Board-ordered probation. Revoked. August 6, 2021.

LICHTENSTEIN, BERNARD JOSEF (A 37396), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admission but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and violated provisions of the Medical Practice Act in the care and treatment of two patients. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation until the anticipated end date of 08/26/2024.Terms and conditions include, but are 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; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Lichtenstein's or patient's place of residence, with the exception of telemedicine; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 27, 2021.

LOGAN, JOHN ROBERT (G 49918), SANTA CLARA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate records in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Surrender of License. October 31, 2021.

LOMAS, HARRY (A 148885), CHICO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 2234(a) and 2234(c) for deviating from the standard of care in that he supervised therapeutic radiation procedures without a valid and current radiology supervisor and operator certificate on August 15, 2018; August 27, 2018; and September 20, 2018. October 5, 2021.

LONG, DEANNA S. (PTCN 340), CAMERON PARK, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with using alcoholic beverages to the extent, or in a manner, as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or the public, and was convicted of more than one misdemeanor involving the use of alcohol; substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a Polysomnographic Technician. Furthermore, she was charged for making statements containing false, misleading, or deceptive information and general unprofessional conduct. Revoked. September 24, 2021.

LOSETH, CAITLIN RAE, M.D. (A 153306), PITTSBURG, PA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with being convicted of a misdemeanor, one count of driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or more. Physician must complete an ethics course. Public Reprimand. September 30, 2021.

LUU, MYCHAEL, M.D. (A 61816), SAN JOSE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admission but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; and obtaining a practice monitor. September 17, 2021.

MARKUS, STEPHEN PETER, M.D. (G 153534), KIRKLAND, WA, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by the Washington Medical Commission for participating in or facilitating fraud, and excessive or unsafe prescribing. Revoked, stayed, (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions included, but not limited to prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances except for those drugs listed in Schedule(s) III, IV, V, and naloxone hydrochloride, and prohibited from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval 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; completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to all required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced nurses. August 20, 2021.

MATARASSO, SETH LAWRENCE, M.D. (A 45304), SAN FRANCISCO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2234 for deviating from the standard of care in that he admitted to using trained medical assistants to perform laser treatments on patients in his office under physician supervision. August 5, 2021.

MATIN, KAMRAN, M.D, (A 66711), TORRANCE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. October 1, 2021.

MCCOURT, KATHY MAUREEN, M.D. (A 46539), SAN MATEO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. August 31, 2021.

MCDONNEL, JAMES KIEFFER, M.D. (G 63465), INDIANAPOLIS, IN, DECISION AND ORDER

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, placed on (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions included, but not limited to notification of employer; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substances abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; submitting proof of Decision and Accusation to all required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced nurses. August 12, 2021.

MILLER, PAUL H., M.D. (G 10099), COVINA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribing controlled substances without an appropriate prior medical exam or indication, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. And excessively prescribed controlled substances to one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Miller's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 19, 2021.

MONTEGUT, WALTON JAMES (A 60845), LAGUNA WOODS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but physician has a mental illness affecting his ability to practice medicine safely, was convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a physician and surgeon, and was charged with acts of dishonesty and/or corruption, repeated negligent acts, inadequate and/or inaccurate records, and general unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. August 3, 2021.

MUSIELEWICZ, ANTHONY JAMES, M.D. (G 74503), SANTA CRUZ, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven (7) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, notification to patients of probation status; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; 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. August 12, 2021.

NUSINOVICH, VLAD, M.D. (A 92996), WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to gross negligence, committed acts of repeated negligence, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; prescribed without an appropriate medical examination or indication; and failed to obtain a fictitious name permit. Revoked, stayed, placed on (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; cannot practice medicine until successfully completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties. October 28, 2021.

OLWENY, RUTH M., M.D. (A 88964), OAKLAND, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to having a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely, using drugs, and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public, and practiced under the influence of alcohol. Revoked, stayed, placed on (7) years' probation. Terms and condition included, but not limited to shall not engage in the practice of medicine until completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation, notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; notification to patients of probation status; submitting proof of Decision and Accusation to all required parties; and prohibited from supervising physician assistance and advanced practices nurses. October 29, 2021.

PADILLA, DAVID ALLEN (G 73271), ROSEVILLE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. September 14, 2021.

PALMER, LOLITA VERNETTE, M.D. (A 112491), ROCKLIN, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was 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 three patients; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; prohibited from performing laparoscopic surgery; submitting proof of notification of Decision and First Amended Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. August 20, 2021.

PANNU, AMRITPAL SINGH, M.D. (A 62711), CHOWCHILLA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 2234(a), 2234(b), and 2266 for deviating from the standard of care in that during the care and treatment of a patient, he failed to optimize non-opiate treatment options for the patient's chronic pain, failed to fully assess the patient's opioid addiction risks prior to initiating long-term opioid therapy, failed to prescribe a naloxone antidote to the patient who had a high risk of overdose, failed to appropriately monitor the patient's narcotic therapy with regular toxicology testing or functional assessments; failed to obtain informed consent for long term opioid therapy, failed to establish a pain care agreement, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate records. September 17, 2021.

PEREZ, HUBERTO, M.D. (A 87279), LAKE MARY, FL, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 141(a), 2234, and 2305 for deviating from the standard of care the Florida Board of Medicine placed conditions on his medical license, issued a letter of concern, and assessed a file, for inappropriately prescribing controlled substances without performing a history and physical examination. August 13, 2021.

PERRY, JOHNATHAN RICHARD, M.D. (G 72992), KENNEWICK, WA, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Washington for failing to document or address a patient's complaints of leg swelling and pain, even though the surgery increased the patient's risk of deep vein thrombosis. Physician must complete an education course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course. Public Reprimand. September 17, 2021.

RABADI, FARES JERIES, M.D. (A 66578), NORTHRIDGE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on two (2) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course. September 30, 2021.

REMY, CELIA, M.D. (A 66944), ROSEVILLE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 2234 and 2266 for deviating from the standard of care in that she documented no history and physical documentation for the patient prior to tumescent liposuction, failed to document the concentration and amount of lidocaine used, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of the patient. August 5, 2021.

RHEE, JOON WON, M.D. (A 77852), REDLANDS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Physician must complete an education course. Public Reprimand. September 30, 2021.

RIVAS, CARLOS ANTONIO, M.D. (A 131589), REDWOOD CITY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Revoked, stayed, placed on (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, attending psychotherapy; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 14, 2021.

RIZVI, SYED TAHIR, M.D. (C 53519), SANTA CLARITA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on three (3) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, an ethics course; and obtaining a practice monitor. September 17, 2021.

ROBERTS, ALLISON MARIA, M.D. (A 140765), DENVER, CO, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 141(a), 2234, and 2305 for deviating from the standard of care in that the Colorado Medical Board issued a Letter of Admonition against her license for failing to identify a skin lesion, that was found to be cancerous after the patient obtained a second opinion. September 8, 2021.

RODRIGUEZ, HECTOR FERNANDO, M.D. (A 92346), ALHAMBRA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to gross negligence in the care and treatment of multiple patients and failed to comply with terms of his Board-ordered probation by practicing during license suspension. Revoked, stayed, placed on (2) additional years' probation which shall be consecutive to and take effect immediately upon completion of the probation remaining in Case No. 800-2016-019637, until anticipated end date of 10/01/2026. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completion of an education course. August 20, 2021.

ROGERS, LEIF LIU, M.D. (A 86603), BEVERLY HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; and obtaining a practice monitor. September 17, 2021.

ROMMAN, FAYEZ, M.D. (A 79983), ELK GROVE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Physician must complete an education course, medical record keeping course, and professionalism program (ethics course). Public Reprimand. October 29, 2021.

ROSE, KAREN EILEEN, M.D. (C 52911), NOVI, MI, DECISION AND ORDER

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, placed on five (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, notification of employer; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; and obtaining a worksite monitor. August 26, 2021.

SANTIAGO-LASTRA, YAHIR A., M.D. (A 143504), LA JOLLA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Convicted of a misdemeanor, one count of entering any lands, whether unenclosed or enclosed by fence, for the purpose of injuring any property or property rights or with the intention of interfering with, obstructing, or injuring any lawful business or occupation carried on by the owner of the land, the owner's agent, or the person in lawful possession; committed dishonest or corrupt acts and unprofessional conduct. Public Reprimand. September 30, 2021.

SARTIN, AARON NATHANIEL, M.D. (A 105914), COLVILLE, WA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 141(a), 2234, and 2305 for deviating from the standard of care in that the Washington Medical Commission issued an Informal Disposition which placed conditions on his medical license and required continuing medical education (CME), for failing to properly diagnose a testicular torsion in a patient resulting in testicular removal. August 25, 2021.

SCHLESINGER, MARK PAUL, M.D. (G 50039), BURBANK, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2266 for (10) ten simple departures from the standard of care involving the care of (4) four patients and some combination of the following reasons: Failure to document discussion of risks of concurrent opioid and benzodiazepine treatment; Failure to document a recommendation for consultation with a psychiatrist; Failure to offer a prescription for naloxone/Narcan. October 27, 2021.

SCHUDER, SUZIE E., M.D. (G 82171), NEWPORT BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was convicted of one misdemeanor count of knowingly make or cause to be made any false or fraudulent claim for payment for a health care benefit and charged with unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on (5) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, providing 100 hours of medical or non-medical community service; completing an education course and an ethics course; obtaining a billing monitor; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising advanced practice nurses. August 27, 2021.

SHAH, RAKHEE N., M.D. (A 90744), PLEASANTON, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, committed acts of gross negligence in the care and treatment of three patients and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, submitting proof of notification of Decision and Order to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Shah's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; completing an education course; obtaining a practice monitor; complying with the Board's probation unit; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 19, 2021.

SIEMS, JON LANE, M.D. (A 54383), TEMECULA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Nevada for failing to maintain timely, legible, accurate, and complete medical records relating to patient diagnosis, treatment, and care. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course. Public Reprimand. October 29, 2021.

SOSIN, DAVID E. (G 13099), TUSTIN, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with failing to comply with terms of his Board-ordered probation by failing to successfully complete the Clinical Competence Assessment Program. Surrender of License. August 2, 2021.

TABATABAI, HAMID, M.D. (C 52106), BALTIMORE, MD, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Maryland for unprofessional conduct and sexual misconduct. Revoked. September 17, 2021.

TEPPER, GIL, M.D. (G 68053), IRVINE, MI, DECISION AND ORDER

Convicted of two misdemeanors, two counts of insurance fraud; committed acts of dishonest or corrupt acts, insurance fraud by inflating costs of surgical hardware devices pursuant to workers' compensation claims, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on three (3) years' probation. All standard terms and conditions of probation apply. September 17, 2021.

TIWANA, JASBIR SINGH, M.D. (A 105298), THOUSAND OAKS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but was charged with using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; convicted of two misdemeanors, one count of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; plus Special Allegation 1 for being 0.15% BAC and higher, and Special Allegation 2 for a prior conviction of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on (4) years' probation. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, twenty (20) day suspension from the practice of medicine commencing on the effective date of the Decision; abstaining from the use of alcohol; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; submitting to biological fluid testing; providing 40 hours of medical or non-medical community service; completing an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; submitting proof of notification of Decision and Accusation to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. October 1, 2021.

TUPAS, MARIA LORMINA LEY (A 49568), ORANGE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Physician has a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. September 23, 2021.

VAUDREY, SCOTT RICHARD, M.D. (G 174326), CHINO HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Physician has not had any clinical care activities since June 2002, which may impact his ability to practice medicine safely as an independent practitioner. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation until the anticipated end date of January 12, 2025.Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing an education course and a prescribing practices course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Vaudrey's or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 3, 2021.

VILLASENOR, ALFRED DAVID, M.D. (A 141670), CHICO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Charged with a Conviction of Crimes Substantially Related to the Qualifications, Functions, or Duties of a Physician and Surgeon, Unprofessional Conduct, and a Failure to Report Convictions and Indictment to the Board. Revoked. August 20, 2021.

WALDURA, JESSICA FOGLER (A 73817), SANTA CRUZ, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Physician has a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. August 25, 2021.

WALLS, ULYSSES CHRISTOPHER, M.D. (A 94049), TRAVERSE CITY, MI, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 1141(a), 2234, and 2305 for deviating from the standard of care in that the Michigan Board of Medicine issues a Reprimand and a fine for violating a Public Health Code related to exposure of medical records in a public space. October 27, 2021.

WHITAKER, MALCOLM ARTHUR, JR., M.D, (G 89131), STEILACOOB, WA, DECISION AND ORDER

Medical license restricted by the state of Washington for self-prescribing a controlled substance. Public Reprimand. October 29, 2021.

YOUNG, GARY PAUL, M.D. (G 42386), GRANITE BAY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. October 28, 2021.

POSTGRADUATE TRAINING LICENSE

CHARLES, JOAQUIN RENE (PTL 6916), SALINAS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Reported to the Board that he recently completed a substance abuse recovery program and is still participating in the follow-up care. Post graduate training license issued on a probation basis for the remainder of his training program. Terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor for substance-abusing licensees; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; attending psychotherapy; submitting proof of notification of Decision to required parties; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; submitting quarterly declarations of compliance with all conditions of probation; complying with the Board's probation unit; prohibited from engaging in the practice of medicine in Dr. Charles' or patient's place of residence, unless the patient resides in a skilled nursing facility or other similar licensed facility; and paying costs associated with probation monitoring. August 31, 2021.

MBC Information and Contacts

Department of Consumer Affairs
Medical Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1200
Sacramento, CA 95815-5401

2022 MBC Meetings

Quarterly Board and Committee Meeting May 19-20, 2022; August 25-26, 2022

Please visit the Board's Meetings Webpage for updates.

Until further notice, the Board Members will conduct all public meetings pursuant to the provisions of the Governor's Executive Order N-29-20 and in compliance with the Bagley Keene Open Meeting Act, via online meeting applications or telephone conferences.

Contact Us:

• For questions or assistance with the following, call 800-633-2322 or 916-263-2382
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Business and Professions Code Section 2021(b) and (c) require physicians to inform the Medical Board in writing of any name or address change. Visit our website to learn more.

Medical Board of California, Executive Director - Bill Prasifka

First Quarter 2022 Edition, Medical Board of California News

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