It’s not clear what may come next for a New Jersey physician who has been accused of recklessly prescribing painkillers and anabolic steroids to patients. He also has been accused of altering patient records in an apparent bid to cover up his activities.
There are no indications that these allegations might lead to eventual medical malpractice or negligence charges, but the State Board of Medical Examiners has issued a statement saying that the doctor is a clear and imminent danger to the public due to his obvious recklessness in prescribing potentially dangerous and addictive drugs.
Under terms of a settlement, the physician has agreed to not practice pending results of a plenary hearing later this year. Depending on the results of that hearing, the doctor could be reinstated, be suspended or see his medical license revoked.
The accused physician was also among 130 doctors who had registered to take part in the state’s medical marijuana program signed into law two years ago. In light of his alleged shady prescription writing past, state officials have removed his name from the registration process and are deleting his name from the program’s website.
Recklessly prescribing medications with dangerous side effects and addictive tendencies can cause harm to others and may promote criminal activity. Such practices are taken very seriously in New Jersey.
For individuals who feel that they have fallen victim to such negligence, there may be assistance available to recoup financial losses, medical expenses and the costs of emotional distress. And because there is a statute of limitations on filing such claims, it’s advisable to consult an attorney early to assure the best possible outcome.
Source: The Star-Ledger, “Smoked out: Old Bridge doctor ousted from medical marijuana program following license suspension,” Mark Mueller and Amy Brittain, May 10, 2012