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 Alexandria Schembra, Public Information Manager

Fall is approaching, though here in Sacramento, you'd never know it. With the change in season comes a change in Board leadership and additions to the Board. President Lawson's message introduces the new members and leadership and announces her Board priorities for the next year.

In addition to new Board members, there have been additions to the Board's Executive Office staff: Douglas Hock joins the team as Licensing Chief, and Rachel Gilbride joins the Public Affairs team as the Public Affairs Specialist. Welcome to both new team members and welcome to all the staff members who have joined the Board in the last few months!

This issue of the Newsletter includes licensing and enforcement updates, an article from the California Department of Public Health, and other updates from the Board.

Finally, we encourage you to subscribe to the Board's various update lists, including Board Meeting information. As always, please contact the Board with any questions, concerns, or requests.

Reminder About Postgraduate Training License Deadline (PTL)

The Board wishes to remind medical school graduates, and postgraduate training programs, that physicians enrolled in a training program in California must obtain a PTL within 180 days after beginning their program. A resident without a PTL after that deadline will be required to cease practice.

The Board makes every effort to process PTL applications before a resident reaches that deadline. To ensure that residents obtain their PTL in a timely manner, the Board encourages them to submit their application as soon they begin their training program.

Applications must be submitted online and more information (including this application checklist) about the requirements to obtain a PTL are available on the Board's website.

Continuing Medical Education (CME) Audits by Email

The Board conducts random audits of its licensees and registrants, selecting 5% of renewed licensees each month. In March 2024, the Board began sending CME audit letters via email instead of by mail, saving staff time and resources. Additionally, the Board began accepting CME audit documents through email at ContinuingMedicalEducation@mbc.ca.gov.

Moreover, the Board's partnership with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education allows the Board to access their Program and Activity Reporting System (PARS), which provides licensee CME completion records uploaded by participating CME providers. Licensees whose CME credits are uploaded to the system do not need to submit CME verification documents to the Board when audited.

Getting the Word Out 📣

From May 2024 through July 2024, the Board's licensing staff and management conducted 25 outreach events regarding the licensure process and requirements. Of the 25 events, 13 were conducted virtually and 14 were in-person presentations at hospitals and medical centers throughout California.

2024-2025 State Budget Funds New Board Enforcement Positions

By Aaron Bone, Chief of Legislation and Public Affairs

As a follow up to SB 815, the Board's 2023 sunset review legislation, the Legislature recently established new employee positions necessary to implement two new enforcement functions to establish a Complainant Liaison Unit (CLU) and conduct interviews prior to closing quality-of-care complaints.

The CLU has the following responsibilities:

• Respond to communications from the public about the complaint review and enforcement process.
• After a complaint has been referred to a field investigation, assist with coordinating communications between the complainant and investigators, as necessary.
• Following a disciplinary decision, respond to questions from the complainant regarding any appeals process available to the disciplined licensee.
• Conduct and support public outreach activities to improve the public's understanding of the Board's enforcement process, including related laws and policies.
• Evaluate and respond to requests from complainants to review a complaint closure that the complainant believes was made in error.

SB 815 states that the Board must offer to a complainant, patient, or patient representative an interview before closing their quality-of-care complaint about a Board licensee. If that interview is declined, or the Board does not receive a response within 30 calendar days, the complaint may be closed, if it is otherwise warranted.

The Board is currently in the process of recruiting for these new positions.

 Warning: Scammers Posing as DEA Agents or Board Enforcement Staff

The Medical Board of California (Board) is aware that scam artists are posing as law enforcement officers, including U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents or Board staff and calling California physicians as part of an extortion scheme.

Scammers posing as law enforcement may tell victims they have missed a court date as an expert witness and have a warrant for their arrest. Scammers posing as DEA agents 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, or other Board phone numbers. If posing as law enforcement, they may impersonate actual law enforcement officers using their real names.

Please note, law enforcement officers, DEA agents, and Board staff will never contact physicians by telephone to demand money or any other form of payment. If you receive one of these calls, 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. Do not call the number the scammers provide; instead, send an email with all information about the call to complaint@mbc.ca.gov.

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 Consumer Complaint.

If you are a licensee of another DCA Board or Bureau, please contact your respective licensing agency to report a scam phone call.

You Asked For It, Questions Received from the Web

By Alexandria Schembra, Public Information Manager

I renewed my license recently and haven't received the little plastic wallet card yet. Is the Board still sending those out?

The Board is no longer mailing out the plastic Wallet License. Any licensee/registrant with a "Current" license status may generate a Wallet License at their convenience by accessing the Wallet License Generator. The Wallet License includes a License Specific QR Code that allows interested parties to instantly view the DCA Search License Profile page with real-time license status information from any QR Code capable device and is generated as an electronic PDF file that can be sent to others as needed. There is no fee for this service.

Wallet License Generator: https://www.mbc.ca.gov/WalletCard/Ideal

I would like to call and speak to someone at the Board instead of searching online. How do I get in touch with Board staff?

The Board's Consumer Information Unit's (CIU) phone lines are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. The public counter is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

CIU staff recommends that callers checking on the status of their application have a file or application number ready. This will help staff locate the file faster and accurately. Callers wanting to submit a complaint will be advised to submit the complaint in writing via the Board's website, where they will be able to provide detailed information about the complaint and asked to complete authorization form(s) so the Board will be able to obtain a copy of the patient's medical records from each relevant medical provider and facility. CIU staff recommends searching the website prior to calling, as it contains a lot of helpful information. If your question cannot be answered via the website, CIU staff is available to assist.

Partner Update: REPORTING PARKINSON'S DISEASE AND MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS ENCOUNTERS

By the California Department of Public Health

Did You Know?

In 2018 and 2021, California enacted Health and Safety Code (HSC) sections 103870 and 103871, which require the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to collect Parkinson's disease information indefinitely and information about other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) until January 2028. To collect this information, CDPH established the California Parkinson's Disease Registry (CPDR) in 2018 and the California Neurodegenerative Disease Registry (CNDR) in 2023. In 2018, CPDR began collecting Parkinson's disease information and has collected over 107,000 unique cases. In 2023, the CNDR started collecting MS information and plans to collect Alzheimer's disease and ALS cases in the coming years.

Why Are We Contacting You?

HSC sections 103870 and 103871 also require physicians diagnosing and treating Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases to report this information to the CPDR and CNDR. If you are not already reporting Parkinson's disease information to CPDR and MS information to CNDR, please start reporting.

What Should You Do?

Please read the California Neurodegenerative Disease Registry Guide to Reporting to become familiar with how CDPH collects neurodegenerative disease information, what information a physician is required to report, and reporting deadlines. If you are a new data provider and need assistance with updating your system to report neurodegenerative disease case encounters automatically or manually, please contact our program at CDSRBhelp@cdph.ca.gov. If you are interested in additional information about the program please visit the CPDR www.cdph.ca.gov/parkinsons and CNDR https://go.cdph.ca.gov/cndr websites.

Please Note: If you are currently reporting Parkinson's disease data to CDPH you do not need to alter your current reporting process unless your facility is also treating patients with other reportable neurodegenerative diseases such as MS.

For quick reference, please review the Neurodegenerative Disease Reporting: At-A-Glance which provides additional information about the registries. If you have any questions regarding the information provided in this letter, please email CDSRBhelp@cdph.ca.gov.

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS — January 2024 - March 2024

Physicians and Surgeons

ABELLA, GABRIEL, M.D. (G 194520), WEST GREENWICH, RI

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2221.05 for unprofessional conduct and being disciplined by the Connecticut Medical Examining Board for failing to meet the standards of patient care for one patient. March 7, 2024.

AELETY, UDHAYA LAKSHMI (A 193498), CHINO, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2221.05 for inappropriate accesses to coworkers' medical record, protected health information, and related activity constituting a Level 4 violation under the Michigan Medicine Discipline for Violations of Privacy or Security of Protected Information or Other Sensitive Information for All Michigan Workforce Policy. January 29, 2024.

AKBER, BUSHRA ALI (A 96502), RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. March 28, 2024.

ALAEV, VICTORIA, M.D. (A 78360), LOS ANGELES, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for providing permanent exemptions to varicella vaccine without the appropriate evidence. February 29, 2024.

ALMEIDA, NESTOR EDUARDO, M.D. (C 193602), PROVO, UT

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2221.05 for unprofessional conduct for voluntarily resigning from National Medical Care while under investigation for conduct, being placed on an investigative suspension by Sevier Valley Hospital after having been alleged to have shared electronic medical record login credentials with an uncredentialed provider, having medical staff membership and clinical privileges revoked by Utah Valley Hospital for sharing medical record login credentials with an uncredentialed provider, having medical staff membership and clinical privileges revoked by Orem Community Hospital for sharing medical record login credentials with an uncredentialed provider, having medical staff membership and clinical privileges revoked by American Fork Hospital for sharing medical record login credentials with an uncredentialed provider, and for being disciplined by the Maryland Board of Physicians for unprofessional conduct in the practice of medicine based upon the sharing of electronic medical record login credentials and the loss of staff membership and clinical privileges at Sevier Valley, Utah Valley, Orem Community, and American Folk Hospitals. February 1, 2024.

ALTAMIRANO, HUGO ESTEFANO (A 121792), SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Reinstated, revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a clinical competence assessment program prior to resuming the practice of medicine; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation; 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 supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. January 5, 2024.

ALVAREZ, JOHN NATHANIEL (A 155288), FULLERTON, CA

No admissions but charged with being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence of alcohol; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on three 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; completing an ethics course; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $10,045.00. January 5, 2024.

AMINI, MASSOUD SIAHKALROUDI (A 53396), WINNETKA, CA

Has a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Revoked. January 12, 2024.

BECKER, RONALD P, M.D. (G 58254), MURRIETA, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient; and repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and incompetence in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; prohibited from making or issuing any written exemption from immunization, or any other written statements providing that any child is exempt from the requirements of Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 120325, but excluding Section 120380) and Sections 120400, 120405, 120410, and 120415 of the Health and Safety Code; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $41,000.00. February 2, 2024.

BENNETTS, JOHN FRANK (A 31528), MONTEREY, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, incompetence, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient; and having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. March 14, 2024.

BHATIA, PRAKASH KRISHIN (A 74848), NATIONAL CITY, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients, and unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and a clinical competence assessment program; and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $51,736.25. Public Reprimand. January 26, 2024.

BOUTROS, JASON K, M.D. (A 42891), PASADENA, CA

No admissions but charged with using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely; prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication in the care and treatment of two patients; failing to consult the CURES database prior to prescribing, ordering, administering, or furnishing a controlled substance in the care and treatment of two patients; gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two patients; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on four 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; completing 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 $33,400.50. March 15, 2024.

BOWHAY, THOMAS ALAN (A 45383), JACKSON, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients; and failure to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. January 4, 2024.

BOWLING, ANNA MICHELLE, M.D. (A 140558), CARLSBAD, CA

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting her ability to practice medicine safely; practicing under the influence of a narcotic drug; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public; using drugs and/or alcohol to an extent that such use impaired her ability to practice medicine safely; self-administered controlled substances; dishonest or corrupt acts; violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on seven years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances unless the following three conditions are met: 1) Respondent must be working in a hospital or ambulatory surgery center setting, 2) Respondent must be working in her capacity as an anesthesiologist, and 3) Respondent must be engaged in the peri-operative or peri-partum care of patients, 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; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing a prescribing practices course and an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; notification to patients of probation status; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $56,508.20. March 8, 2024.

BRODIE, IAN DALLAS (A 29773), SEAL BEACH, CA

Admitted to having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. January 15, 2024.

BRUTON, BARBARA ALEENE, M.D. (A 45856), MARINA DEL REY, CA

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. 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 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 $22,455.00. March 8, 2024.

CALAGUAS, DANIEL KENN, M.D. (A 132288), LOMA LINDA, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and violations of provisions of the Medical Practice Act in the care and treatment of multiple patients. 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 issuing vaccine exemptions; prohibited from supervising physician assistants; prohibited from supervising advanced practice nurses, except in a hospital setting; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $17,000.00. March 13, 2024.

CARR, KENNETH WARREN, M.D. (G 40398), CARLSBAD, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, committing acts of repeated negligence, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and unprofessional conduct in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, 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 medical record keeping course and an ethics course; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $24,541.80. February 23, 2024.

CERVANTES, JOHN ALEXANDER (G 51144), SANTA BARBARA, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. January 26, 2024.

CHAC, RICK T, M.D. (A 105379), CHULA VISTA, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient, repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of three patients, and violation of the Medical Practice Act. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' 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 physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $30,000.00. February 21, 2024.

CHASE, EMMETT (G 51614), HOOPA, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. March 25, 2024.

CHIU, ARTHUR KWOK-KWONG (G 56073), NORTH YORK, ON

Admitted to violating multiple terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. February 9, 2024.

CHU, DAVID ZHONG JIAN (G 32609), SAN GABRIEL, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts and incompetence in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Surrender of License. January 12, 2024.

DIAMOND, DANIEL MICHAEL, M.D. (A 134320), IRVINE, CA

Admitted to being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $20,070.00. January 12, 2024.

DINGLASAN, SR., JOSEPH LOCHINVAR, M.D. (A 32988), DIAMOND BAR, CA

No admissions but charged with aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine; unprofessional conduct; participated and/or affiliated with medical corporations that were founded, structured, controlled, and/or operated in violation of rules and regulations related to the corporate practice of medicine; assisting in the violation of corporate practice of medicine laws and regulations; gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and failed to attend and participate in an interview by the Board. 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; surrender of DEA permit prior to practicing medicine; completing an education course and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from serving as a Medical Director at any medical spas or any medical spa-like facilities not 100% owned by Respondent and shall limit his practice of medicine to two locations and maintain all necessary licenses and permits; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $73,379.00. February 16, 2024.

EBEL, VALERIE JANE, M.D. (A 132130), CINCINNATI, OH

Committed acts of gross negligence and repeated negligence in the care and treatment of one patient and the patient's newborn infant. Physician must reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $10,298.75. Public Reprimand. February 2, 2024.

EMORY, WARDEN HAMLIN (C 31807), LOS ANGELES, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. February 16, 2024.

ENGLISH, II, JUSTIN G (C 30497), EL MACERO, CA

No admissions but charged with sexual misconduct and sexual exploitation with two patients, gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient, repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of two patients, and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. February 13, 2024.

FARRELL, DEACON EMMET, M.D. (A 163151), CULVER CITY, CA

No admissions but charged with being convicted of one misdemeanor count of reckless driving involving alcohol or drugs, or both; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of alcohol; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; providing 40 hours of medical or non-medical community service; completing an education course and an ethics course; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $18,305.25. March 21, 2024.

GARRISON, RIC SCOTT, M.D. (G 50780), PALMDALE, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on two additional years' probation with all terms and conditions in the current probation included, and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $45,609.25. January 5, 2024.

GENSTLER, PAULALAN EARL (G 31346), CARMEL, CA

Admitted to being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Surrender of License. March 18, 2024.

GOLD, SIMONE MELISSA, M.D. (G 70224), NAPLES, FL

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of entering and remaining in a restricted area in violation of Title 18, United States Code section 1752(a)(1). Physician must complete a professionalism program (Ethics course) and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $26,739.25. Public Reprimand. February 2, 2024.

GRAHAM, STUART NATHAN, M.D. (G 70035), POWAY, CA

Committed acts of gross negligence, repeated negligence and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $21,101.00. February 22, 2024.

GROSSI, PHILIP A (G 12389), CAMPBELL, CA

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 violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances. Surrender of License. January 30, 2024.

HAGSTROM, MATS FREDRIK, M.D. (G 80721), SAN FRANCISCO, CA

No admissions but charged with failing to comply with the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation by failing to submit to biological fluid testing. Revoked, stayed, and existing seven-year probation extended an additional two years. January 4, 2024.

HELLIWELL, JASON PAUL, M.D. (A 74796), BAKERSFILED, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; obtaining a billing monitor; prohibited from owning or operating a laboratory testing service; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $45,000.00. February 28, 2024.

HOLDEN, CHRISTOPHER (G 75635), ORANGE, CA

Admitted to violating multiple terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. February 21, 2024.

HOPNER, DAN DAVID, M.D. (A 36372), LOS GATOS, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for self-prescribing and prescribing to his spouse. February 21, 2024.

JOHNSON, HENRY STEWART, M.D. (G 46419), LOS ANGELES, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for providing medical exemptions for vaccines without supported reasons. March 7, 2024.

JONES, JEFF, M.D. (G 46282), MODESTO, CA

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. 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 controlled substances, except for those listed in Schedules III, IV and V; surrender of DEA permit; completing a prescribing practices course, an education course, and a medical record keeping course; obtaining a practice monitor; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $27,311.00. January 18, 2024.

KING, FRANK JAVIER, M.D. (A 80044), MISSION VIEJO, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and excessively prescribed controlled substances in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed and any 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; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $29,979.00. February 16, 2024.

KINZIE, WESLEY EDWARD, M.D. (G 48580), MODESTO, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence 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 reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $22,607.20. March 14, 2024.

KUMAR, VICTORIA ANN (A 60124), PALM SPRINGS, CA

No admissions but charged with failing to comply with the terms and conditions of her Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. January 25, 2024.

KUNZ, JOHN D, M.D. (G 57797), SANTA BARBARA, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, excessively prescribed controlled substances, prescribing to an addict, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, notification to patients of probation status; completing an education course, a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; obtaining a practice monitor; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $59,646.60. February 22, 2024.

KWITTKEN, BENJAMIN, M.D. (A 146802), VENTURA, CA

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 unprofessional conduct. 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 in the perioperative setting when acting as an anesthesiologist where the patient will only use such controlled substances at the location of the procedure (i.e., the foregoing exception shall not apply to any controlled substances that are used outside of such perioperative setting) 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 education course and an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; notification to patients of probation status; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $23,453.40. January 12, 2024.

LAI, ALBERT, M.D. (A 86192), RANCHO MIRAGE, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and failure to properly supervise a physician assistant in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on thirty-five months' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; obtaining a practice monitor; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $17,343.00. January 5, 2024.

LEUNG, MARTIN CHAN-HOI, M.D. (G 39648), SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Committed acts of failing to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient and failing to participate in interviews by the Board. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $12,178.75. March 1, 2024.

MADRID, CECELIA THERESA, M.D. (G 48480), BURBANK, CA

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 prescribing practices course and a medical record keeping course, and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $18,000. Public Reprimand. February 21, 2024.

MAI, THI BICH NGOC, M.D. (A 138623), ANAHEIM, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for deviating from the standard of care in the assessment and management of care of a stroke patient. March 5, 2024.

MARTEL, JAMES BENJAMIN, M.D. (G 60544), FAIR OAKS, CA

No admissions but charged with being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving a vehicle while under the influence of any drug and concurrently doing any act forbidden by law, or neglect any duty imposed by law in driving the vehicle, which act or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than the driver; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an ethics course; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $21,077.25. February 16, 2024.

MCCULLOUGH, ANDREA PAULA, M.D. (A 61951), WILLITS, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of two 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, 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; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $20,000.00. February 16, 2024.

MCIVOR, OWEN ROWE (G 67842), REDLANDS, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. February 9, 2024.

MEREDITH, RANDALL JOHN (G 39666), HYAMPOM, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. February 16, 2024.

MEZA, JAMES MICHAEL, M.D. (A 194799), LOS ANGELES, CA

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 and placed on three years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; completing a professional boundaries program; attending psychotherapy; notification of employer; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; 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; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. March 19, 2024.

MISKINYAR, SHIR A (A 50080), IRVINE, CA

Admitted to having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. February 9, 2024.

NAVAKAS, EDWARD HARRY (G 88320), DEERFIELD, IL

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances, and violating provisions of the Medical Practice Act in the care and treatment of multiple patients. Surrender of License. March 14, 2024.

NOVAK, JAMES ANTHONY (G 44909), SAN DIEGO, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. March 21, 2024.

OBENG, MICHAEL K., M.D. (A 107087), BEVERLY HILLS, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence; repeated negligent acts; dishonest or corrupt acts; failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records; insurance fraud by participating in presenting fraudulent insurance claims, and or aiding or abetting others to do so; and failing to provide adequate security by liability insurance, or by participation in an interindemnity trust, for claims by patients arising out of surgical procedures performed at his outpatient surgery center in the care and treatment of two patients; knowingly making or signing a document directly related to the practice of medicine that falsely represented an existence of a statement of facts in the care and treatment of one patient, and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on four additional years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing a medical record keeping course and an ethics course; completing a clinical competence assessment program; completing a professional enhancement program; obtaining a billing monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $25,000.00. January 18, 2024.

OCHELLO, JR., CHARLES THOMAS, M.D. (C 166709), HOUMA, LA

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely and using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, notification to patients of probation status; abstain from the use of controlled substances; abstain from the use of alcohol; completing an education course and an ethics course; attending psychotherapy; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $13,972.00. January 26, 2024.

OGBECHIE, LAWRENCE ODIAKA CHIKE, M.D. (A 61959), DIAMOND BAR, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records, and failure to properly supervise a physician assistant in the care and treatment of three patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on five 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 and billing 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 $31,075.75. January 5, 2024.

PADMANABHAN, CHICKKIAH (A 38887), LANCASTER, CA

Admitted to committing acts of gross negligence and repeated negligence in the care and treatment of one patient, and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. January 19, 2024.

PALMER, III, FRANCIS R., M.D. (G 57473), SANTA MONICA, CA

No admissions but charged with aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine, violating the corporate practice of medicine ban, committing acts of fee-splitting, failing to obtain a fictitious name permit, and unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete an education course and an ethics course and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $92,365.75. Public Reprimand. March 1, 2024.

PANDYA, TEJAL GAURANG, M.D. (A 128754), PORTERVILLE, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of three patients. Physician must reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $40,183.00. Public Reprimand. February 23, 2024.

PAQUETTE, JUSTIN DOMINIC, M.D. (A 91868), SACRAMENTO, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, incompetence, and 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 reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $18,767.44. Public Reprimand. February 16, 2024.

POINT, CYNTHIA A (G 58321), SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, committing acts of repeated negligence, incompetence, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and committing acts of prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication and excessively prescribing controlled substances to one patient. Surrender of License. February 6, 2024.

QUEL, JORGE ANTONIO, M.D. (A 24556), CULVER CITY, CA

No admissions but charged with 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 professional boundaries program, and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $17,129.60. Public Reprimand. February 16, 2024.

REYNA, ANA REBECCA (G 51558), TEHACHAPI, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. January 19, 2024.

RICO, FERDINAND REYES (A 114111), UTICA, NY

No admissions but charged with gross negligence in the care and treatment of one patient and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of three patients. Surrender of License. February 9, 2024.

ROSSMAN, STANLEY HERSCHEL, M.D. (G 25627), NIPOMO, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for pleading guilty to Count Two of the Information filing - Title 21 United States Code Section 331(c) and 333(a)(1). January 30, 2024.

RUTTENBERG, ALAN S (C 27473), CANOGA PARK, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. March 15, 2024.

SANDOVAL, MARIA ALEXANDRA (A 167341), GREENFIELD, CA

Failed to comply with the terms and conditions of her Board-ordered probation. Revoked. February 16, 2024.

SCHWARTZ, JAIME SCOTT, M.D. (A 105035), BEVERLY HILLS, CA

No admissions but charged with aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine, violating the corporate practice of medicine ban, committing acts of fee-splitting, failing to obtain a fictitious name permit, and unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete an education course and an ethics course, and reimburse the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $221,924.75. Public Reprimand. February 16, 2024.

SHAH, RAKHEE N, M.D. (A 90744), ARCATA, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence and repeated negligent acts in the care and treatment of two patients. Revoked, stayed, placed on two years' probation, to run concurrently with the prior probationary order, with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $27,416.20. February 16, 2024.

SHIHATA, ALFRED ADIB (A 37090), SAN DIEGO, CA

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. February 8, 2024.

SIAO, DONALD YU-KWONG (G 73395), SAN JOSE, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; failure to report a felony indictment; and being convicted of twelve felony counts of distributing opioids outside the scope of professional practice. Surrender of License. February 13, 2024.

SOLIS, MICHAEL T, M.D. (A 60882), VISALIA, CA

No admissions but charged with being convicted of two misdemeanor counts of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; 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; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $14,400.00. February 8, 2024.

SURA, ANJANA SAILESH, M.D. (A 30390), FONTANA, CA

Admitted to aiding or abetting unlicensed practice of medicine, gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, failure to provide medical records, and inadequate and inaccurate record keeping with a cost recovery in the amount of $37, 795.25, prior to issuance of a new or reinstated license. Surrender of License. January 4, 2024.

TAUBER, JACOB ERIC, M.D. (A 41526), BEVERLY HILLS, CA

Unable to satisfy the terms and conditions of his Board-ordered probation. Surrender of License. January 24, 2024.

THOENE, MICHAEL JOSEPH, M.D. (G 25265), EL CAJON, CA

Respondent made no admissions but was charged with gross negligence, excessively prescribed controlled substances, and failed to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of multiple patients; and self-prescribed drugs in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Acceptance of this stipulated settlement is not an admission of guilt. Revoked, stayed, placed on one-year additional probation, to run concurrent to the probationary order in Case No. 800-2016-023503; All terms and conditions in the current probation are included, and adds reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $13,000.00. January 26, 2024.

TOH, IRENE KAH-MEE, M.D. (A 92955), LOS ANGELES, CA

Public Letter of Reprimand issued pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 2233 for deviating from the standard of care by prescribing medications for the treatment of a chronic medical condition without maintenance of appropriate medical documentation and prescribed medication intended for a patient in a different person's name. February 27, 2024.

TOIG, GARY STEVEN (G 46719), REDWOOD CITY, CA

Admitted to having a condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely. Surrender of License. February 8, 2024.

VREEKE, MARY ANNE, M.D. (A 78457), CAMARILLO, CA

Admitted to practicing under the influence of a narcotic drug; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to herself, another person, or to the public; using drugs and/or alcohol to an extent that such use impaired her ability to practice medicine safely; self-administering controlled substances to herself; dishonest or corrupt acts; violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; violating provisions of the Medical Practice Act; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on ten years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, 180 days actual suspension from the practice of medicine beginning the sixteenth day after the effective date of the decision; notification to patients of probation status; prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, furnishing, or possessing any controlled substances except when each of the following conditions are met: 1) Respondent must be working in a hospital, 2) Respondent must be working in her capacity as an anesthesiologist, and, 3) Respondent must be engaged in the peri-operative care of patients; 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; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing a prescribing practices course, a medical record keeping course, and an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; 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; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $55,040.75. March 15, 2024.

WETTERAU, LAWRENCE ALLEN, M.D. (A 62927), ARCADIA, CA

No admissions but charged with being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more with a sentencing enhancement for having a blood alcohol content of .15% or greater while driving; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an education course and an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; obtaining a practice monitor; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $5,758.00. February 23, 2024.

WHITFIELD, JONATHAN JUDE, M.D. (A 67730), ENCINO, CA

Admitted to being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; and using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public. Revoked, stayed, placed on four years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, waiving his right to seek early termination of probation; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; attending psychotherapy; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; obtaining a worksite monitor; prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $14,400.50. March 13, 2024.

WILK, ERIK JOSEPH (A 63394), SANTA BARBARA, CA

No admissions but charged with repeated negligent acts, excessively prescribed controlled substances, prescribing without an appropriate prior medical examination or indication, and failure to maintain adequate and accurate medical records in the care and treatment of one patient. Surrender of License. March 4, 2024.

YAGHI, MOHAMAD J (A 54524), LOS ANGELES, CA

No admissions but charged with gross negligence; repeated negligent acts; performing 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 two patients; incompetence in the care and treatment of one patient; failure to report a patient's death; and failure to have adequate security by liability insurance or by participation in an interindemnity trust for claims by patients arising out of outpatient cosmetic surgical procedures. Surrender of License. February 9, 2024.

ZARDOUZ, SHAWN, M.D. (A 131987), COSTA MESA, CA

Admitted to gross negligence, repeated negligence acts, prescribing, dispensing, or furnishing of a dangerous drug without an appropriate prior examination and a medical indication, repeated acts of clearly excessive prescribing, failure to maintain adequate and accurate records, and general unprofessional conduct. Physician must complete a education course, prescribing practices course, medical record keeping course, clinical competence assessment program, and reimburse the Board its cost of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $34,953.30. January 3, 2024.

ZHANG, ZHENG-GANG (A 66053), GARDNERVILLE, NV

No admissions but charged with dishonest or corrupt acts and being convicted of one felony count of receiving kickbacks. Surrender of License. February 12, 2024.

ZIEGLER, JORDAN ISAAC, M.D. (A 91470), FRESNO, CA

Committed acts of repeated negligence and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an education course and an ethics course; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; and reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $30,000.00. February 21, 2024.

Polysomnographic Technologist

CABRERA, MARIA IVANA (PTGL 602), WATSONVILLE, CA

Convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more with a sentencing enhancement for having a blood alcohol content of .20% or greater while driving and refusing to take a chemical test. Revoked. January 12, 2024.

LAMBERTE, MICHAEL JASON (PTGL 1217), MONTCLAIR, CA

Admitted to being convicted of one felony count of possession of over 600 images of child or youth pornography, required to register as a sex offender, and unprofessional conduct. Surrender of License. February 20, 2024.

ROCHA, RYAN JOSEPH (PTGL 26), SAN JOSE, CA

Admitted to being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more; driving with a blood alcohol content greater than .20%; and using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself/herself, another person, or to the public. Surrender of License. February 9, 2024.

Postgraduate Training License

CALLEJAS, ANDREI, (PTL 14420), ROSEVILLE, CA

Committed dishonest or corrupt acts, was convicted of one misdemeanor count of Domestic Assault and Battery and had a license to practice medicine subjected to disciplinary action. Probationary license issued for the lifetime of the license with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, completing an ethics course; and prohibited from supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. March 12, 2024.

Podiatric Medical Board of California

BROWN, JAMES FRANCIS, D.P.M. (E 4434), LONG BEACH, CA

No admissions but charged with having a condition affecting his ability to practice his profession safely; being convicted of one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence of drugs and one misdemeanor count of driving a motor vehicle with a suspended or revoked license; being convicted of violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; using drugs and/or alcohol in a manner as to be dangerous or injurious to himself, another person, or to the public; violating statutes regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances; and unprofessional conduct. Revoked, stayed, placed on five years' probation with terms and conditions including, but not limited to, prohibited from ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, or possessing any controlled substances; maintaining a record of all controlled substances ordered, prescribed, dispensed, administered, or possessed; abstaining from the use of controlled substances; abstaining from the use of alcohol; completing an ethics course; submitting to a psychiatric evaluation; attending psychotherapy; submitting to a medical evaluation and obtaining medical treatment; obtaining a practice monitor; prohibited from engaging in the solo practice of medicine; notification to patients of probation status; notify the supervising physician of the terms and conditions of probation prior to receiving assistance from a physician assistant; reimbursing the Board its costs of investigation and enforcement in the amount of $80,000.00; completing a clinical diagnostic evaluation; notification of employer; submitting to biological fluid testing; attending substance abuse support group meetings; and obtaining a worksite monitor. March 15, 2024.

MBC Information and Contacts