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Medical Board of California News

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The Board's Mission

The mission of the Medical Board of California is to protect healthcare consumers and prevent harm through the proper licensing and regulation of physicians and surgeons and certain allied healthcare 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, policy, and regulatory functions.

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Editor's Spotlight

By Emmalee Ross, Designer and Editor in Chief

In this edition of Medical Board of California (Board) News, we complete our three-part series of A Complaint is Filed Against You, What Happens Next? where we talk about filed accusations, stipulated settlements, administrative hearings, and appeals. Learn the ins and outs of the enforcement process if a complaint is filed against you.

In May, the Board held its Quarterly Board Meeting and highlighted the Board's revisions to the Guidelines for Prescribing Controlled Substances. The Board held thoughtful discussion with input from Board members, stakeholders, and the public, concluding with a plan of action to move forward with the revisions. Learn more in the article MBC Approves Revisions to Guidelines for Prescribing Controlled Substances for Pain.

Lastly, the CURES biennial fee decreases for licenses expiring on or after July 1, 2023. Learn more about the CURES Fee Decrease.

President's Message

By Kristina D. Lawson

Summer is upon us, and with that, the Medical Board of California (Board) has been busy with Sunset Review, transitioning Physician's & Surgeon's License applications to electronic only, preparing for the next Board meeting, which will be held in Bakersfield, appointing a new executive director, saying farewell to a Board member, and welcoming a new member to the Board.

The Board is holding its August meeting in Bakersfield, at the request of patient advocates. This meeting will feature discussions on maternal health issues. Please mark your calendars for August 24-25, 2023, details forthcoming. To receive the meeting agenda, once posted, you may subscribe to the "Board and Committee Meetings" list.

Additionally, the Board's Sunset Bill, Senate Bill 815 (Roth), is progressing through the California State Legislature. You can read more about this bill in the article Medical Board of California Progressing Through Sunset Review.

On June 1, the Board stopped accepting paper applications for the Physician's & Surgeon's Licenses. Except under limited circumstances, paper applications submitted on or after June 1, 2023, will not be processed and the Board will notify the applicant they must apply through the BreEZe online system. Learn more about the Board's transition to electronic applications in the MBC's Licensing Program Goes Paperless article.

The Board recently welcomed its newest executive director, Mr. Reji Varghese. Mr. Varghese brings over 30 years of medical regulatory experience and served the Board as deputy director since August 2020.

Finally, please join me in welcoming David Lee to the Board. Mr. Lee will be taking the place of Board Member David Ryu, whose term ended May 31, 2023. Mr. Lee was appointed by Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, and his term will end June 1, 2027. Thank you, Mr. Ryu, for your service to the Board.

MBC Publishes Revisions to Guidelines for Prescribing Controlled Substances for Pain

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

After an 18-month stakeholder driven process, with numerous comments from patients, patient advocates, and those within the medical community, the Medical Board of California (Board) published its revised Guidelines for Prescribing Controlled Substances for Pain.

"We are trying to create an environment in California where chronic intractable pain is not a curse," said Board Member Dr. Richard Thorp, who presented the revised guidelines at the May 2023 Quarterly Board Meeting.

Last updated and released in 2014, the Board created a taskforce and began the process to revise the guidelines in January 2021 - holding two interested parties' meetings with the public in July and November of 2022 to garner feedback.

As the Board discussed the need to update the 2014 prescribing guidelines, it was emphasized that a change in tone was necessary to provide support and guidance to physicians to prescribe in a way that is effective for their patients and to also have enough flexibility to deal with pain patients that don't fall into the normal guidelines.

Dr. Sean Mackey, professor and chief of the Stanford University Division of Pain Medicine, serves as a senior advisor for the Board's taskforce and endorsed the revision of guidelines brought forward by the Board.

"I'm a physician scientist, I care for people suffering from chronic pain, many who have intractable pain," said Dr. Mackey, in a letter read at the May board meeting. "Our motivation for revising this document was to learn from the lessons in the past and make it better."

In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released their opioid guidelines, which Dr. Mackey noted resulted in untreated and undertreated pain, serious withdrawal symptoms, worsening pain outcomes, psychological distress, overdose through use of illegal drugs, and suicide.

"We recognize the need to ensure patient access to safe and effective pain management treatment, and at the same time, the need to support physicians providing treatment for people with chronic pain," said Dr. Mackey, who has spent more than 20 years researching pain to develop safe and effective treatments.

The Board recognizes the need to ensure patients have access to safe and effective pain management treatment and, at the same time, also recognizes the need to support physicians providing treatment to this patient population. Consequently, the guidelines were updated to provide a framework for clinician use while also encouraging the development of treatment plans customized for their patients. The guidelines do not replace a physician's clinical judgment and individualized, patient-centered decision-making.

The guidelines include discussions on recommended practices for the management of patients with pain, special patient populations, and compliance with controlled substance laws.

Please email the Board at PrescribingGuidelines@mbc.ca.gov with any questions or comments about the updated guidelines.

MBC Appoints New Executive Director

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

On June 23, 2023, Mr. Reji Varghese (pronounced Var-Geese) was sworn in as the executive director of the Medical Board of California (Board).

"For nearly the last three years, Mr. Varghese has been dedicated to serving the Board and California's healthcare consumers," said Board President Kristina D. Lawson. "I look forward to continued collaboration with him to further our investments into the Board's vital public protection work."

Mr. Varghese has more than 30 years of medical regulatory experience and first joined the Board as deputy director in August 2020. He was appointed by the Board as interim executive director in February 2023.

"I am incredibly grateful for the Board's confidence in my leadership and look forward to continuing my service, now as the executive director," said Varghese.

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
• Midwife Reviewer
• 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)

MBC's Licensing Program Goes Paperless

By MBC Licensing Program

Beginning June 1, 2023, the Medical Board of California (Board) no longer accepts or processes paper-based applications for a Physician's and Surgeon's (P&S) License.

The switch to a paperless application process helps both applicants and the Board by increasing the efficiency of the review process, enhancing security, and reducing costs and impact to the environment.

For more information on how to submit your application through BreEZe, see the How to Apply for a Physician's and Surgeon's License webpage.

Licensing Webinar - What You Need to Know When Applying for Your License

If you're applying for your Postgraduate Training License or Physician's and Surgeon's License, check out the Medical Board of California's (Board) webinar on license and application details and requirements.

The Board's Chief of Licensing, Marina O'Connor, covers everything you'll need to know when applying for your license.

Important Update: CURES Fee Decrease

The biennial fee charged to maintain CURES will decrease from $22 to $18 for licenses expiring on or after July 1, 2023, per Assembly Bill 3330. Please refer to your renewal notice for the amount due.

A Complaint is Filed Against You, What Happens Next? - Part Three

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

Editor's Note: Part One of Three of "What to Expect if a Complaint is Filed Against You" was published in the 2022 Fourth Quarter Edition detailing the first steps for a physician after a complaint is filed, and Part Two of Three was published in the 2023 First Quarter Edition covering the investigation stage.

The Medical Board of California's (Board) goal in the disciplinary process is first and foremost consumer protection. Whenever possible, and consistent with consumer protection, the Board will attempt to rehabilitate the licensee so they may correct any issues in their performance.

Attorney General's Office

After the investigation stage, if there is clear and convincing evidence that you, the subject physician, have violated the Medical Practice Act, the case is forwarded to the Attorney General's Office (AGO) to prepare an accusation (a legal document listing the charges and/or the sections of law allegedly violated).

After an accusation is filed, a hearing may be scheduled, and you may need to appear before an administrative law judge (ALJ). However, during pre-hearing conferences, if a stipulated settlement of the charges or penalty is accepted by both parties, and adopted by a panel of the Board as its decision, the hearing is not necessary.

Note: If criminal violations are suspected, the case will be referred to a local district attorney's office for prosecution.

Stipulated Settlement

Most disciplinary actions are determined through a stipulated settlement, which is an agreement between the subject physician and the Board on appropriate discipline. Like with other types of legal settlements, reaching a settlement reduces the amount of time and cost involved to both parties. Settlements allow the Board to put consumer protections and physician rehabilitation measures into place more quickly.

If settlement is possible, it will first be negotiated between the representatives of the Board and the subject physician. Before it can be final, however, it must be approved by a panel of Board members. Once approved, the settlement terms are final and the subject physician waives their right to appeal the decision.

Administrative Hearing

As the subject physician, you are entitled to dispute the charges at an administrative hearing. The request for a hearing may be done by delivering or mailing a "Notice of Defense" to both the deputy attorney general and the Board. For specific information when completing a Notice of Defense, please visit the Board's Disciplinary Process webpage.

Note: If a Notice of Defense is not received, it is presumed you have waived your right to contest the accusation, and the Board will act on the accusation without a hearing, taking action as permitted under the law.

The hearing resembles a court trial and is heard by an ALJ who drafts a proposed decision. The proposed decision is sent to a panel of the Board who can adopt the decision as proposed, reduce the penalty and adopt the decision, or non-adopt the decision, and set the matter for oral argument in front of the panel of Board members assigned to the case. Following the hearing after non-adoption, the panel of the Board will issue a decision after non-adoption and may adopt the proposed decision as written, reduce the penalty proposed by the ALJ, or increase the penalty proposed by the ALJ.

Depending on the case, and ensuring public protection, disciplinary actions range from a public reprimand to revocation of a license.

Appeal

After a decision proposed by an ALJ is adopted by the Board panel, you may petition the Board for reconsideration before the effective date of the decision, which is typically 30 days after the order is issued.

If you disagree with the Board's decision on a case that went to hearing before an ALJ, you may file an appeal called a writ of mandate in Superior Court.

Penalty Relief

You may petition the Board for reinstatement of a revoked license or surrendered license, or seek to modify the terms of your probation, or terminate your probation early pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2307, if you meet the requirements for penalty relief.

Additional Resources

In Fiscal Year 2021-2022, 502 cases were referred to the AGO, and 19 cases were referred for criminal action. For more details, please see the Board's 2021-2022 Annual Report.

The Board's Manual of Model Disciplinary Order and Disciplinary Guidelines are non-binding standards that the Board considers when determining the discipline for a physician. Based upon the evidence available in the case, the Board will deviate from the recommendations in the guidelines to tailor discipline appropriate to the circumstances.

If you have questions, please email us at complaint@mbc.ca.gov or call us at 800-633-2322.

Community Outreach: Cases of Babies Born with Congenital Syphilis Soar in California

By American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3

The number of California babies born with congenital syphilis is increasing rapidly, reaching rates not seen in nearly three decades. This growing number of cases brings along a 40 percent risk for infant death or life-long health problems.

The good news, however, is that syphilis is treatable and curable during pregnancy and is 100 percent preventable.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3 (AAP-CA3) and the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency HIV, STD, and Hepatitis Branch (HSHB) are working together to raise awareness of congenital syphilis prevention through funding provided by the California Department of Public Health's (CDPH) STD Control Branch.

"Preventing congenital syphilis is the best treatment option available to bring these astronomical rates down," Dr. Richard Silva, San Diego Newborn Hospitalist, said. "We recently treated an infant with congenital syphilis who was very sick at birth and required care in our neonatal intensive care unit for weeks. The only way to prevent congenital syphilis and protect newborns is by screening all pregnant people and appropriately treating those who are infected."

Get Tested

To prevent congenital syphilis, anyone who is pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant should get tested for syphilis. California and national guidelines recommend syphilis testing at least twice during pregnancy: 1) at the first prenatal visit and 2) early in the third trimester (between 28-32 weeks). Additional testing may also be recommended at delivery.

Get Treated

Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics, even during pregnancy. Sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection and avoid infecting others.

Know the Risks

Congenital syphilis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, prematurity, low birth weight and death shortly after birth. If a baby is born with syphilis and survives delivery, they can have deformed bones, severe anemia, enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice, brain and nerve problems such as blindness or deafness, meningitis and/or skin rashes.

"The increase in congenital syphilis cases is extremely alarming, especially because it is completely preventable, and syphilis is curable," AAP-CA3 Project Director Tara Milbrand said. "We work to care for all children within San Diego County, and so often that means caring for the family as a whole unit. In the instance of congenital syphilis, we must show pregnant people we care about their health in addition to the health of their children."

AAP-CA3 recently launched a website with information and resources for the community and healthcare providers. Free, educational materials and guidelines are available, as well as information on local testing sites. More information can also be found on CDPH's Congenital Syphilis webpage.

You Asked For It, Questions Received from the Web

By Alexandria Schembra, Public Information Analyst

I recently submitted all the required paperwork for my license application. It's been more than a month since I have heard anything, and I don't know who to contact. How can I get an update on the license application?

Due to high application volume, please allow approximately 130 days for the initial review of an application. Application processing times may change depending on application volume. Once your application is reviewed, you will be notified by email of any deficiencies. In addition, please allow 15 business days for Board staff to review all supporting documents received after the initial review has been conducted. All applications and supporting documents are reviewed in the date order received unless you qualify and have been approved for an expedited review.

To check the status of your initial license application, please log into your BreEZe account. Once the application has been reviewed, the deficiencies are identified and updated by staff. Please refer to the Board's BreEZe Resources Center webpage for more information on creating a BreEZe account and how to access the BreEZe system.

Currently, the Medical Board of California (Board) is unable to respond to requests for application status updates and to confirm receipt of documents. Documents submitted through BreEZe or the Direct Online Certification Submission portal are immediately received by the Board. If you wish to confirm receipt of a mailed document, please use a mail tracking service.

Consumer Corner: Valuable Resources at Your Fingertips

By Emmalee Ross, Public Information Officer

As a healthcare consumer, have you ever wondered about your doctor's license? Or wanted to know how to file a complaint? Maybe you've been curious about the number of physicians disciplined by the Board last year, or the number of physicians in your county. Whether you're looking for tips on choosing the right doctor, or information on how to track down your medical records, we're here to help.

The Medical Board of California (Board) offers valuable resources to its consumers through its website.

When logging on to www.mbc.ca.gov, you will see a white banner at the top of the page which contains important features for locating applicable information.

If the subject you're looking for does not seem straightforward, using the "Search" tab can help pinpoint responses. Type in the keyword, and you'll be provided with a list of helpful webpages.

On the banner, you'll also see a "Consumer" tab. Here you'll find information on the complaint review process, what type of complaints are under the Board's jurisdiction, and how to file a complaint.

Another important feature for consumers is the "Resources" tab which provides forms, publications, brochures, medical resources, and more.

Below are some resources consumers may find helpful:

• Publications
  • Annual Report
  • Disciplinary Actions/License Alerts
• Brochures
  • Be An Informed Patient, Check Up on Your Doctor's License
  • A Consumer's Guide to the Complaint Process
  • Don't Wait, File a Complaint!
  • Questions and Answers about Investigations
• Medical Resources
  • Choosing a New Doctor
  • Medical Spas
  • Patient Access to Medical Records
  • Telehealth
• Statistics
  • Average/median time to process complaints
  • Complaints/Investigations Statistics
  • Physician and Surgeon Licenses by County

Another helpful tool is the "License Search" tab, where you'll find the Board's License Verification webpage. Here you can search for your doctor by name or license number to see their public profile which will tell you if their license is renewed and current, delinquent, expired, or if they've had any discipline.

You can also keep track of your doctor's license through the Board's mobile app by searching for your doctor's license, "following" your doctor, and receiving license alert notifications if any administrative action is taken or enforcement documents are added to their public profile.

Lastly, a hidden treasure of information for consumers is the "FAQs" tab. Under "select a topic," you will see list of options for consumers including, complaints and investigations, general office practices/protocols, medical records, and more.

If you'd like to contact the Board, follow us on social media, or subscribe to email alerts, you can do so at the top of the Board's webpage.

Can't find what you're looking for, or need assistance accessing information? Contact us at webmaster@mbc.ca.gov.

Legislation: Medical Board of California Progressing Through Sunset Review

By Aaron Bone, Chief of Legislation and Public Affairs

This year, the Board has been going through the Sunset Review process, which provides the California State Legislature and other stakeholders the opportunity to discuss and propose various statutory changes to further the Board's consumer protection mission. The Board's last Sunset Review was in 2021 and led to several law changes.

To start the Sunset Review process, the Board submits a Sunset Review Report to the Legislature, which details the Board's activities since the prior Sunset Review. Importantly, the report offers the Board the opportunity to request law changes (see Section 12 of the report) that will help the Board more effectively protect consumers. This is followed by a public legislative hearing to discuss concerns and questions raised by legislators; this year's hearing was held on Friday, March 16.

Currently, the Legislature is considering what new laws will be enacted. The Board's top two priorities are to address its ongoing financial challenges by increasing fees and the size of its reserve fund, and to improve communication with the public about its role and functions. You may read through the details of the proposed law in Senate Bill 815.

The bill was approved by the State Senate on May 31 and is now under consideration by the State Assembly. The Legislature has until September 14 to approve legislation this year.

Partner Updates: California Newborn Screening Program Newsletter and Webinar

Sign up for the California Newborn Screening Program Newsletter. This newsletter is currently published twice a year and will soon be digital only. Sign up today to access future newsletters.

Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits will be offered. The Genetic Disease Screening Program designates this webinar/ live activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Each physician should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. The Genetic Disease Screening Program is accredited by the California Medical Association (CMA) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Central Complaint Unit Ad: 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:

• Colon and Rectal Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Medical Oncology
• Neurological Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Pain Medicine
• Urology

Partner Updates: Important Updates from the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch

By California Department of Public Health, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch

Changes in Laboratory Reporting Requirements for Blood Lead Testing Results

Beginning July 1, 2023, Assembly Bill 2326 changes requirements for laboratories reporting blood lead test results in California.

These changes apply to all laboratories including point-of-care blood lead testing laboratories in California healthcare provider offices.

Reporting Timeframes:

• Blood lead test results greater than or equal to the most recent US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Blood Lead Reference Value (BLRV) of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) are required to be reported within 3 working days of analysis.
• If the result is less than the CDC BLRV, the result is required to be reported within 30 calendar days of analysis.

Required Reporting Information:

• A laboratory that performs a blood lead analysis on a specimen of human blood drawn in California is required to report the information specified below to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), Electronic Blood Lead Reporting System for each analysis on every person tested.
  • The test results in micrograms of lead per deciliter.
  • The name of the person tested.
  • The person's birth date.
  • The person's address, including the ZIP Code, and telephone number.
  • The name, address, telephone number, and National Provider Identifier (NPI) of the health care provider that ordered the analysis.
  • The name, address, telephone number, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) number, and NPI of the analyzing laboratory.
  • The accession number of the specimen.
  • The date the analysis was performed.
  • The person's Medi-Cal client identification number (CIN) or, for other health plans, the name of the health plan and the medical plan identification number.
  • The person's sex.
  • The person's race and ethnicity.
  • The person's pregnancy status.
  • The name, address, and telephone number of the person's employer, if any.
  • The date the specimen was drawn.
  • The source of the specimen, specified as venous, capillary, arterial, cord blood, or other.
  • The name, address, telephone number, and CLIA number of the referring laboratory, if any.
  • The testing methodology used for blood lead analysis specified as point of care, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, graphite furnace atomic spectroscopy, or other.

Pediatric Skin Cream Recalled by US Food and Drug Administration

On February 1, 2023, Diep Bao Cream was recalled by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Several cases of children with elevated blood lead were noted after using the cream, which is sold locally and online through Facebook. More information is available in the FDA's Company Announcement regarding the recall.

Physicians should encourage parents to stop using this product and dispose of it immediately. Consumers with questions can contact the company at shopemeca91@gmail.com.

Consider testing children for lead exposure from this product and other lead sources.

New Educational Information on Lead in Aviation Gas

Leaded gasoline was eliminated in the 1990s for on-road vehicles but is still commonly used by small piston-engine (propeller or rotary) aircraft and is the last transportation fuel containing lead in the US. The product is called aviation gas, aka "avgas." Lead dust from these emissions can be found in neighborhoods around airports, settling on soil and other objects that people may touch.

Learn more and how to keep your family safe on CDPH's Lead in Aviation Gas webpage.

Lead Week Information: Save the Date

Lead Week is October 22-28, 2023. The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch is focusing on lead air pollution (including from aviation gas), shooting ranges, and other sources. More to come!

Partner Updates: Workers' Compensation Fraud Notice

By State of California, Division of Workers' Compensation

The California Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) is offering an examination for physicians interested in becoming Qualified Medical Evaluators (QME) certified by the state of California.

QMEs earn additional income while helping California's injured workers by performing disability evaluations on a part-time basis.

The exam will be held October 14, 2023, through October 21, 2023, at a Pearson VUE testing center. To help physicians prepare for the exam, DWC offers a free study guide and examination book, along with the DWC's Physician's Guide, to supplement the physician's professional experience. More information can be found the DWC's Qualified Medical Evaluator webpage.

QME reports are reimbursed in accordance with Title 8 California Code of Regulations Section 9795. Billing for the medical-legal report begins at $2015.00.

The QME exam's application and registration packet is available in August and can be downloaded from the DWC website.

For more information on becoming a QME, please visit the DWC's FAQ webpage. To stay informed about this opportunity and other DWC news, please sign up for the DWC Newsline. For additional questions, email DWC at qmetest@dir.ca.gov.

The Medical Board of California App for iOS!

The Medical Board of California App for iOS!

• Quick, optimized access to website content.
• Follow up to 16 doctors' licenses.
• Immediate license profile access to the doctors being followed.
• Free, automated license alert notifications when profile is updated.

Access to information on your doctor at your fingertips, 24/7. Developed by the Medical Board of California as part of its ongoing commitment to protecting California's healthcare consumers. Making informed healthcare decisions has never been easier.

Receive notifications when a doctor's name, address, practice status, license expiration, or surgery data changes, or when administrative actions or enforcement documents are added to a doctor's profile. This information includes notification when a doctor is suspended, revoked, or placed on probation.

Administrative Actions: November 1, 2022 - January 31, 2023

Physicians and Surgeons

ABRAMS, MATHIS (G 12119), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligence acts, excessive prescribing of controlled substances, prescribing to an addict, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Surrender of License. December 13, 2022.

AFGHAN, RAHIMA, M.D. (A 67257), CORONA, 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 multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed, and any recommendations or approvals to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $8,000.00. January 12, 2023.

AHO, CHRISTOPHER JAMES, M.D. (A 79102), WHITTIER, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely, and gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing or possessing any controlled substances and from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana, except permitted to prescribe Norco, Oxycodone, Dilaudid, Flexeril, Robaxin, and Tramadol for post-operative patients when acting as the post-operative patient's primary surgeon, for up to sixty (60) days after surgery as well as order these medications for patients in the perioperative setting when acting as the patient's primary surgeon, and for patients with a diagnosed and documented claustrophobia or related condition who require medication before undergoing a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is permitted to prescribe up to 1 milligram of Ativan for the patient's use before undergoing a MRI ordered by Dr. Aho; 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; completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; notification to patients of probation status; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $10,043.00. January 12, 2023.

ALLEN, EVERETT DOUGLAS (G 54881), CRESCENT CITY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. December 1, 2022.

ALTAMIRANO, JOSEPH RODERICK (G 63870), NEWPORT BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Convicted of one felony count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and one felony count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Revoked. January 5, 2023.

ALUPAY, PEDRO SORIANO, M.D. (A 40750), LA MIRADA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $19,490.40. January 13, 2023.

ANDERSEN, JARON ROSS, M.D. (A 97202), HACIENDA HEIGHTS, 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 an education course, a medical record keeping course, and a professionalism program (ethics course), and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $14,997.00. Public Reprimand. January 12, 2023.

ANDERSON, KATHY MIRZABOZORG (G 78317), CORONA DEL MAR, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Surrender of License. December 31, 2022.

AYOUB, EDMUND, M.D. (A 104389), PALM SPRINGS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of gross negligence, repeated negligence, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $20,346.25. January 5, 2023.

BABARAN, JOSELITO PONCE, M.D. (A 51480), PORTER RANCH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Dr. Babaran made no admissions, but was charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients; excessively prescribed controlled substances to one patient; prescribed to an addict; and prescribed without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, for the first year of probation or until successfully completing a Clinical Competence Assessment Program, whichever occurs first, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing or possessing any controlled substances and from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; surrendering of DEA permit prior to practicing medicine; 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 a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $20,071.25. January 12, 2023.

BABUS, HOWARD ALLEN (G 33221), SANTA BARBARA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. December 27, 2022.

BEAUCLAIR, JOHN PATRICK, M.D. (G 17614), LA CANADA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine; violating the laws regarding medical corporations; dishonest or corrupt acts; gross negligence; knowingly making or signing a document directly related to the practice of medicine that falsely represented an existence of a statement of facts; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $9505.00. November 10, 2022.

BERJIS, FARAZ FRANK (A 73092), LAFAYETTE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, sexual misconduct and sexual exploitation with one patient, and failing to attend and participate in an interview with the Board. Surrender of License. January 19, 2023.

BHUIYA, AREF, M.D. (A 67793), WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with incompetence; repeated negligent acts; performed anesthesia in an outpatient surgery setting without being licensed, certified, or accredited; and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on fifty-nine months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $12,248.00. January 26, 2023.

BLUMENFELD, DORON (A 45201), ENCINO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, sexual misconduct, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Surrender of License. December 15, 2022.

BROWN, BENNIE LEONARD (A 30405), SACRAMENTO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to being convicted of one felony count of conspiracy, one felony count of aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine, one felony count of perjury, one felony count of unemployment fraud, one felony count of filing a false tax return in 2013, one felony count of filing a false tax return with the intent to evade tax for 2013, and one felony count of filing a false amended tax return for 2013. Surrender of License. January 26, 2023.

BUSS, RICHARD FREDERICK (G 52995), PINE GROVE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. November 28, 2022.

CHEN, BRIDGET MERCY (A 66849), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to having a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. January 27, 2023.

CONCEICAO, JOYCE, M.D. (A 183619), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of unprofessional conduct and incompetence due to unusual circumstances that occurred during the training program related to deficiencies in the six ACGME core competencies, that ultimately resulted in her being placed on probation; and a forced resignation from her program for failure to obtain a license by April 4, 2022. Probationary license issued, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; completing an ethics course; successfully completing the necessary credits with an ACGME-accredited postgraduate training to become eligible for Board certification in the chosen specialty prior to practicing outside of an ACGME-accredited postgraduate training program; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. December 19, 2022.

DAVIS, WILLIAM FRANK, M.D. (G 69230), SANTA ANA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for proceeding to surgery without fully performing a pre-operative work-up of additional possible etiologies of a patients' postprandial pain. December 29, 2022.

DIAZ, TERESA LYNN, M.D. (A 88588), SACRAMENTO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for providing permanent vaccine exemptions to all vaccines. December 5, 2022.

EL-MENSHAWI, MOHAMED ALI, M.D. (A 183618), LOMA LINDA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of unprofessional conduct, has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely, and used drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, 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; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. December 19, 2022.

EMAMZADEHFARD, SAHRA (A 179116), FRESNO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of her Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. November 9, 2022.

EVANS, TIMOTHY KANG, M.D. (A 183582), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of unprofessional conduct and dishonesty by disclosing on his application that he was placed on probation and had been disciplined or placed under investigation during his training program for accessing the record of his then girlfriend on two separate occasions, without her consent. Probationary license issued, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. December 13, 2022.

FITZPATRICK, DALE WALTER (G 65940), MODESTO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligence acts, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, and failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. January 6, 2023.

GIBSON, GERALD PATRICK (A 61098), DALLAS, TX, DECISION AND ORDER

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. January 31, 2023.

GINGERICH, SHELDON EARL (G 53642), TUCSON, AZ, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to being convicted of two misdemeanor counts of aiding and abetting simple possession of a controlled substance. Surrender of License. January 26, 2023.

GLATT, WILLIAM (G 15309), BURLINGAME, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligence acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Surrender of License. January 2, 2023.

GUICE, MICHAEL JAMES, M.D. (G 33573), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for improperly prescribing Methotrexate to a patient. Physician must complete a prescribing practices course and a medical recording keeping course. January 20, 2023.

HALL, SUSAN JANE PERRY, M.D. (A 76766), TEHACHAPI, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from providing care and treatment to patients under sixty (60) days of age; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $4,858.75. December 30, 2022.

HAMBLIN, BASIL COLIN, M.D. (A 76893), POINT REYES STATION, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $19,740.00. Public Reprimand. November 17, 2022.

HAU, BENNY, M.D. (G 74902), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of gross negligence, aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $36,495.25. January 13, 2023.

HODNETT, RICHARD MCINNIS, M.D. (C 51707), THOUSAND OAKS, 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 two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course (Condition Satisfied) and an Ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $7,208.75. January 5, 2023.

HOROWITZ, KIM JEFFERY, M.D. (A 42396), TEHACHAPI, 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 prescribing practices course and a medical recording keeping course; and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $5,300.00. Public Reprimand. December 29, 2022.

ISOLANI, FRANCESCO GIUSEPPE, M.D. (G 85394), BERKELEY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for lack of treatment of hyperkalemia and not continuing medications as ordered. December 13, 2022.

ISPIRESCU, SCOTT DRAGOSH, M.D. (A 63583), LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $17,820.25. January 13, 2023.

JACOBSON, ERIC MICHAEL (G 36315), MONTEREY, 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. Surrender of License. January 3, 2023.

KOCHUMIAN, MINAS (A 54808), TARZANA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with being convicted of one felony count of healthcare fraud. Surrender of License. December 13, 2022.

KOHAN, SID, M.D. (G 79439), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; repeated negligent acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical competence assessment program; completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. January 20, 2023.

KRON, MICHAEL JOSHUA, M.D. (A 74089), WALNUT CREEK, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for self-prescribing medications. January 17, 2023.

LARSH, LONNA, M.D. (G 75442), SANTA CRUZ, 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 of one patient. Physician must complete a professionalism program (ethics course) and an education course; and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $3,091.00. Public Reprimand. December 2, 2022.

LEE, LESTER LAWRENCE, M.D. (A 40840), HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; and repeated negligent acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any Schedule II controlled substances (this prohibition against possession does not apply to medications lawfully prescribed to Dr. Lee by another practitioner for a bona fide illness or condition), and 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 a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $5,496.25. November 17, 2022.

LEHFELDT, MAX RUDOLPH, M.D. (A 80511), SOUTH PASADENA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and failure to disclose financial interest. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $7,311.25. January 27, 2023.

LOZANO, ANDREW (G 38738), SAN JOSE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of practicing medicine while license was suspended, dishonesty or corruption, violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances, failing to comply with a request for medical records, failing to attend and participate in an interview with the Board, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked. January 17, 2023.

MASE, SUNDARI R., M.D. (G 80521), SANTA ROSA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for being arrested for a misdemeanor violation of VC 23152 (a)- DUI. December 5, 2022.

MATTHEWS, OSCAR ANTONIO (A 24880), VISTA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to repeated negligent acts, dishonest or corrupt acts, knowingly making or signing a document directly related to the practice of medicine that falsely represented an existence of a statement of facts, and failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; unprofessional conduct; and having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. January 3, 2023.

MISRA, ASHA, M.D. (A 36227), NEWPORT BEACH, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for submitting vaccination exemption certificates without proper qualifications. January 23, 2023.

NGUYEN, MINH HIEP, M.D. (A 98914), CONCORD, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, unprofessional conduct, and failing to maintain adequate and accurate records in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $2,731.25. November 3, 2022.

OKEZIE, ONYINYE EUNICE, M.D. (A 93885), BAKERSFIELD, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for issuing permanent exemptions for two patients with reactions that are not listed as a contraindication or precaution for future immunization from the MMR and DTaP vaccine. January 10, 2023.

ORNEKIAN, VAHRAM, M.D. (A 169106), BEVERLY HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Convicted of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and committed acts of using alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Public Reprimand. January 3, 2023.

PEATROSS, JESSICA LAINE (C 139872), ASHEVILLE, NC, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Surrender of License. November 18, 2022.

PESSARAN, ALIREZA (A 89855), CARMICHAEL, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Revoked. January 5, 2023.

POPOV, ALEXANDER, M.D. (A 78244), LOS ANGELES, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, and placed on seven years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; notification of employer; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; completing an education course and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program prior to practicing medicine; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation prior to practicing medicine; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation prior to practicing medicine; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment prior to practicing medicine; obtaining a billing monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. November 14, 2022.

PURCELL, DORIS SHUBNUM, M.D. (A 72785), VACAVILLE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence; repeated negligent acts; failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records; failing to consult the CURES database prior to prescribing, ordering, administering, or furnishing a controlled substance; and failing to make and/or keep a record documenting the prescribing of controlled substances in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on four (4) years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, thirty (30) days actual suspension from the practice of medicine to be completed between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024; 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, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $8,000.00. November 3, 2022.

RAO, SEKHAR SURYADEVARA (A 93250), AUSTIN, TX, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with being disciplined by Texas based on a federal indictment alleging healthcare fraud, and being convicted of two counts of healthcare fraud. Surrender of License. January 17, 2023.

REINER, MARC HOUSTON, M.D. (G 49887), SAN DIEGO, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and violated provisions of the Medical Practice Act in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances, except for those drugs listed in Schedule V, until Dr. Reiner submits certification of successful completion of a prescribing practices course, and from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $3,500.00. November 11, 2022.

ROY, SUNIL A (A 40667), CHINO HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, dishonest or corrupt acts, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. January 27, 2023.

SAGER, RONALD D, M.D. (C 25663), CALABASAS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records; failing to obtain proper informed consent; and improperly discontinuing the medications of a patient. Physician must complete a medical record keeping course and a prescribing practices course. December 9, 2022.

SAVUR, VIVEK MANGESH (A 33689), WEST HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with sexual exploitation, sexual misconduct, gross negligence, and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of two patients; and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. December 30, 2022.

SERRANO, FELICIANO ANTONIO, M.D. (A 88849), HUNTINGTON PARK, 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, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from scheduling the performance of routine fistula grams, and from placing bare metal stents within a patient's fistula for dialysis access; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $13,366.25. January 13, 2023.

SHAPIRO, EILEEN SHELLY (C 43259), OLYMPIC VALLEY, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Committed acts of gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, failing to attend and participate in an interview with the Board, failed to report her change of address, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked. December 2, 2022.

SPRAGUE, MARGARET MELINDA, M.D. (G 56228), LA JOLLA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of her Board-ordered probation. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstain from the use of controlled substances; abstain from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; providing 10 hours of medical or nonmedical community service; completing an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. January 19, 2023.

SPRENGER, DAVID LEROY (G 87304), ELK GROVE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. December 23, 2022.

STEIN, PETER HAMILTON, M.D. (A 48620), NOVATO, 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 an education course, a prescribing practices course, and a medical record keeping course; and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $6,977.50. Public Reprimand. January 12, 2023.

THOMPSON, PATRICK SHANNON, M.D. (G 45100), LAGUNA HILLS, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, excessive prescribing, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of one patient. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances as defined by Schedule II of the California Uniform Controlled Substances Act until successful completion of the Clinical Competence Assessment Program, and from issuing an oral or written recommendation or approval to possess or cultivate marijuana; completing an education course, a prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $7,435.00. January 5, 2023.

TOURSARKISSIAN, KARIM M.D. (G 87408), BANNING, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of three patients; repeated negligent acts, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $14,270.00. November 10, 2022.

TRAN, VINCENT (A 101551), CHULA VISTA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with dishonest or corrupt acts and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. December 14, 2022.

VAID, ANUJ, M.D. (A 113786), DANVILLE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Admitted to gross negligence and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, notifying patients of probation status; completing an education course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $10,561.25. December 30, 2022.

VERHOEVE, PAUL EDWARD (A 45358), EL CAJON, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. January 30, 2023.

VIGOR, CAREY MARIE (G 43860), SAINT CLAIR SHORES, MI, DECISION AND ORDER

Disciplined by Indiana for failing to undergo a Board-ordered examination to confirm her continuing fitness to practice medicine. Revoked. January 3, 2023.

VIVIAN, MICHAEL ROLAND PUDE, M.D. (G 78890), VENTURA, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, and placed on seven years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, submitting to a psychiatric evaluation prior to practicing medicine; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; completing an ethics course; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. January 23, 2023.

WISNER, GARY ROYCE (A 41236), LODI, 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 multiple patients. Surrender of License. January 30, 2023.

YASSA, NADINE HELMY, M.D. (A 48720), ROSEVILLE, CA, DECISION AND ORDER

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, excessively prescribing controlled substances, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of one patient. Public Reprimand. December 29, 2022.

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