“Of the 22 major occupational groups, employment in health-care support occupations is expected to grow most rapidly (34.5 percent), followed by personal care and services occupations (26.8 percent), and healthcare practitioners and technical occupations (25.9 percent),” the agency said Friday.

Overall, employment is projected to grow by 14.3 percent over this decade, resulting in 20.5 million new jobs.

Of these, health care and social assistance sector is projected to gain the most jobs (5.6 million).

Professional and business service employment will see smaller gains (3.8 million new jobs) as will construction (1.8 million).

The increase in health and personal care services will generate jobs for an estimated 712,000 registered nurses, 706,000 home health aides, and 607,00 personal care aides.

To learn more:

• Go to the summary (which has links to the full report).

The department has also suspends the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.

Information about health care providers is also on the agency’s website.

To find this information click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov).

The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998.

This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700.

Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Here is the January 31st update issued by the Washington State Department of Health:

Note: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.

State revokes, suspends licenses, certifications, registrations of health care providers

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health has revoked or suspended the licenses, certifications, or registrations of health care providers in our state. The department has also immediately suspended the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.

The department’s Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions, and advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 70 health care professions (e.g., medical doctors, nurses, counselors).

Information about health care providers is on the agency website. Click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Franklin County

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program revoked the credential of Wayne Jenkins (CP00000981). Jenkins crossed professional boundaries with several clients, including making comments about their breasts, and touching the breast of two clients.

King County

In January 2012 the Dental Commission indefinitely suspended the credential of dental assistant Basilia A. Bryan (D60154078). Bryan failed to comply with a previous agreement.

In January 2012 the Denturist Program revoked the credential of Traci B. Chisley (DN00000357). Chisley failed to comply with a previous order by working as a denturist while her credential was suspended.

In December 2011 the Medical Commission indefinitely suspended the license of physician Karen J. Hamilton (MD00034688). Hamilton failed to respond to an investigator.

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program suspended the credential of certified nursing assistant Eneze Mwende Mwangu (NC60116972). Mwangu attempted to transfer a patient with a Hoyer lift and failed to properly connect the straps on the lift. This resulted in the patient falling and sustaining multiple, serious injuries.

In December 2011 the Secretary of Health withdrew the statement of charges against massage therapist Amenia Renfro-Mandregan (MA00025325).

In January 2012 the Unlicensed Practice Program ordered Shareen L. Salo to permanently cease and desist from any and all conduct constituting the practice of massage in Washington unless she has a credential or otherwise meets an exception.

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program suspended the credential of registered nursing assistant Stephanie M. Stahl (NA00182305). Stahl stole at least $350 from a patient when she was helping the patient with financial records and cashing checks.

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program suspended the credential of Lisa D. Tuffs (CP00003896). Tuffs entered into a personal relationship with a client and tested positive for drugs during drug screenings. She also gave the client drugs, including Percocet.

Kitsap County

In January 2012 the Nursing Assistant Program suspended the credential of registered nursing assistant Laurie D. Oster (NA00159718). Oster made a medication error and failed to report the error.

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program indefinitely suspended the credential of Stephanie R. White (CP60026487). White failed to comply with a previous order.

Mason County

 In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program indefinitely suspended the credential of Steven Michael Dorland (CP60225022). Dorland failed to comply with a previous agreement.

Pierce County

In December 2011 the Denturist Program suspended the credential of Yvonne Monique Bakker (DN60041191). Bakker aided and abetted unlicensed practice by allowing a person who does not hold a credential to perform treatment on a patient.

In January 2012 the Nursing Assistant Program ended the probation order against certified nursing assistant Jeremy Richard Bennett (NC60071284).

In January 2012 the Medical Commission indefinitely suspended the license of physician Alfred H. Chan (MD00019718). Chan failed to respond to commission requests for a written statement regarding an investigation. He was criminally charged with 20 counts of health care fraud, two counts of false statement, one count of obstruction of justice, and one count of money laundering.

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program reprimanded certified nursing assistant Emmanuel L. Lukudu (NC10071376). Lukudu failed to respond to a department investigator’s request for a written statement. Lukudu must comply with terms and conditions.

In December 2011 the Pharmacy Board indefinitely suspended the license of pharmacist Ann M. Mauritz (PH00063242, PH60009136). Mauritz failed to comply with a previous order.

In December 2011 the Health Care Assistant and X-ray Technician Programs suspended the credentials of Bernadeth G. Smith (HC60015965, XT00002980). Smith authorized unlawful prescriptions to pharmacies by phone verification, and printed and delivered patient profiles to a person who was using them to make unlawful prescriptions to make money

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission suspended the license of licensed practical nurse Kenya M. Stewart (LP00051568). Stewart was convicted of seven counts of second degree identity theft in 2010.

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program indefinitely suspended the credential of certified nursing assistant Shamon A. Williams (NC10066133). Williams failed to comply with a previous agreed order.

Spokane County

In January 2012 the Nursing Assistant, X-ray Technician, and Health Care Assistant Programs suspended the credentials of Abbey C. Aune (NC10098509, XT60022138, HC60088462, HC60024035). Aune admitted that she fraudulently obtained more than three dozen prescriptions by using the name of a colleague without proper consent.

In January 2012 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program suspended the credential of chemical dependency professional trainee James Stephen Hurley III (CO60140148). Hurley failed to submit a sample for a random drug screen as required by his substance abuse monitoring contract. He also approached a patient and solicited sex.

Thurston County

In January 2012 the Nursing Commission suspended the license of licensed practical nurse Randal M. Eddy (LP00045228). Eddy was convicted of manufacturing a controlled substance (marijuana) in 2011.

In January 2012 the Dental Commission withdrew the May 2, 2011, statement of charges against dentist Norman E. E. Hein (DE00005835).

In January 2012 the Nursing Assistant Program ended the probation order against registered nursing assistant Brenda L. Longoria (NA60186520).

In January 2012 the Massage Program indefinitely suspended the credential of Dawn Michelle Petrushkin (MA60240918). Petrushkin failed to comply with a previous agreement.

Out of State

Illinois: In January 2012 the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the credential of registered nurse Christine C. Trupp (RN00168166). Trupp’s application to practice as a registered nurse in Oklahoma was denied for fraud, deceit, or material deception in trying to get a license. She also surrendered her license to practice nursing in California because of the action taken by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing.

Oregon: In January 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program indefinitely suspended the credential of certified nursing assistant Jamie L. Armstrong (NC10057618). Armstrong failed to comply with a previous stipulation.  

Oregon: In December 2011 the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of registered nurse Deborah L. Doering (RN00169760). Doering’s license to practice nursing in Maryland was revoked for a pattern of failure to administer controlled substances, failure to document administration of controlled substances, and drug diversion.

Oregon: In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program indefinitely suspended the credential of chemical dependency professional trainee Joseph M. Field (CO60205974). Field failed to comply with a previous agreement.

Oregon: In January 2012 the Massage Program suspended the credential of Frank L. Souza (MA00008691). Souza’s credential to practice massage in Oregon was revoked for engaging in sexual contact with three clients. He remains prohibited from practicing in that state.

Texas: In August 2011 the Nursing Commission summarily suspended the license of licensed practical nurse Lakita Anthony-Coleman (LP00052265). Anthony Coleman’s license to a vocational nurse in Texas was revoked; she remains prohibited from practicing in that state.

Texas: In January 2012 the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of licensed practical nurse Jay T. Herington (LP00059742). Herington failed to comply with a previous stipulation.

Periodically Washington State Department of Health issues an update on disciplinary actions taken against health care providers, including suspensions and revocations of  licenses, certifications, or registrations of providers in the state.

The department has also suspends the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.

Information about health care providers is also on the agency’s website.

To find this information click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov).

The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998.

This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700.

Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Here is the January 26th update issued by the Washington State Department of Health:

Note: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.

State disciplines health care providers

The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions or withdrawn charges against health care providers in our state.

The department’s Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions, and advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 70 health care professions (e.g., medical doctors, nurses, counselors).

Information about health care providers is on the agency website. Click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Chelan County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Frances J. Pocan (NA00189315) with unprofessional conduct. A patient allegedly gave her money to pay the patient’s bills, and she failed to pay the bills or return the money to the patient.

Clark County

In December 2011 the Massage Program charged Douglas L. Black (MA00011374) with unprofessional conduct for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a patient.

In December 2011 the Medical Commission charged physician Patrick Chau (MD00030053) with unprofessional conduct. Allegations include failing to comply with terms and conditions set against his license, prescribing controlled substances inadequate notes about why he prescribed the substances, and failing to follow-up with patients.

Douglas County 

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Maria Elena Vasquez (NA60168663) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly borrowed money from a patient and failed to repay the loan.

Jefferson County

In December 2011 the Veterinary Board of Governors released veterinarian Joyce M. Murphy (VT00001824) from terms and conditions set against her license.

King County 

In December 2011 the Unlicensed Practice Program notified Steve Becker that it intends to issue a cease-and-desist order. He’s charged with performing a forensic evaluation, administering psychological tests, and diagnosing a patient without a valid psychologist or counselor license.

In December 2011 the Dental Commission granted the application of dental assistant Jaime Lynn Clarke (D160231847) and placed conditions against her registration. She was convicted of driving under the influence and entered into a deferred prosecution for charges of driving under the influence.

In January 2012 the Nursing Commission amended the statement of charges against registered nurse Flor D. Cruz (RN00076122). She allegedly failed to act on a patient’s change in vital signs, failed to perform a complete assessment of the patient, and failed to communicate the changes in the patient’s condition to a physician or other staff. She also allegedly rented a room in her house to a former inmate at the jail where she worked, and checked the inmates medical records without authorization.

In December 2011 the Secretary of Health ended the probation order against physician Terrill L. Harrington (MD00038084).

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged certified nursing assistant Gus Ernie Hayes (NC10013627) with unprofessional conduct. He was convicted of violating a no-contact order and entered a deferred prosecution for charges of assault, malicious mischief, and resisting arrest.

In December 2011 the Medical Commission charged physician Jim Chun Jen Hsu (MD00044903) with unprofessional conduct. The diagnosis and surgery he performed on a patient’s shoulder was allegedly below the standard of care.

In January 2012 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program granted the application of chemical dependency professional trainee Jina Marie Milius (CO60185460) and placed conditions against her certification. She was convicted of vehicular homicide, theft, and underage alcohol possession.

In December 2011 the Health Care Assistant Program ended the probation order against Laura Lena Miller (HC60068282, HC60151774).

In December 2011 the Dental Commission charged dentist Steven H. Nguyen (DE00008242) with unprofessional conduct. It’s alleged that he knowingly allowed an employee without a valid license to perform denturist and dental assistant duties.

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged certified nursing assistant Krystal J. Shoulders (NC10100007) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly took a patient’s debit card and purchased about $250 of groceries for her own use.

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program ended the probation order against certified nursing assistant Maylee B. Vo (NC60156056).

Kitsap County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Ashley Marie Rowland (NA60102636) with unprofessional conduct. She entered into a deferred prosecution for the charge of theft.

Lewis County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program denied the application of registered nursing assistant applicant Lisa J. Sipe (NA60255488). She was convicted of child molestation.

Mason County

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Program denied the application of chemical dependency professional trainee applicant Joseph Lee Schaeffer (CO60245631). He was convicted of methamphetamine possession, two counts of driving with a suspended license, two counts of domestic violence assault, attempting to elude police, and resisting arrest.

Pierce County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Katie J. Byrd (NA60214486) with unprofessional conduct. Allegations include sleeping while caring for a patient, smoking marijuana with the patient, driving the patient while under the influence, and shoplifting. She also allegedly had the patient pawn jewelry so she could get a tattoo.

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program charged chemical dependency professional Terrance O. Jones (CP60044697) with unprofessional conduct. He was convicted of three counts of domestic violence assault, marijuana possession, and two counts of violating a no-contact order.

In January 2012 the Counselor Program ended the probation order against agency affiliated counselor and certified counselor Sabryna D. Klug (CG60165266, CL60165237).

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission placed licensed practical nurse Nancy L. Picou (LP00047746) on probation for five years. She allegedly received prescriptions for controlled substances for herself, filled them, and gave them to her husband.

Spokane County

In January 2012 the Certified Counselor Program granted the application of Michael Tyrone Deal (CL60246873) and placed conditions against his certificate. He was convicted of two counts of obstructing police, driving without a license, false statement, two counts of possessing stolen property, attempting to elude police, driving with a suspended license, and illegal drug conduct.

In January 2012 the Nursing Assistant Program granted the application of certified nursing assistant Julie Raeann Potts (NC10096507) and placed her certification on probation. She entered into a deferred sentence for an assault charge.

Thurston County

In January 2012 the Nursing Assistant Program reinstated the certification of James R. Pollard (NC10085152).

Yakima County

In January 2012 the Unlicensed Practice Program notified Randy Allan of its intent to issue a cease-and-desist order. He allegedly advertised and represented himself as an equine dentist without evidence that he is supervised by a licensed veterinarian.

In January 2012 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program granted the application of chemical dependency professional trainee Frances Salinas Gonzalez (CO60256819) and placed her certification on probation for three years. She was convicted of solicitation to obtain Vicodin by fraud, and driving under the influence. Her registered counselor credential was suspended for two years.

Out of State

Virginia: In December 2011 the Nursing Commission reinstated the license of registered nurse Brandon L. Bailey (RN00176831) and placed his license on expired status until he meets reactivation requirements.

 

Periodically Washington State Department of Health issues an update on disciplinary actions taken against health care providers, including suspensions and revocations of  licenses, certifications, or registrations of providers in the state.

The department has also suspends the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.

Information about health care providers is also on the agency’s website.

To find this information click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov).

The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998.

This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700.

Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Here is the January 13th update issued by the Washington State Department of Health:

Note: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.

 State disciplines health care providers

OLYMPIA -  The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions or withdrawn charges against health care providers in our state.

The department’s Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions, and advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 70 health care professions (e.g., medical doctors, nurses, counselors).

Information about health care providers is on the agency website. Click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Benton County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program reinstated the registration of Victoria A. Cuello (NA00191993) and placed conditions against her registration with which she must comply.

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission placed the license of registered nurse and advanced registered nurse practitioner Carol J. Thamert (RN00147397, AP30007371) on probation for one year. She was unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety. She must comply with established terms and conditions to ensure that she’s able to practice safely.

Clark County 

In December 2011 the Health Care Assistant Program ended the probation order against Amy Lynn Hanson (HC60077214).

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy charged pharmacist James E. McConkey (PH00056030) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly wrongfully distributed medication and took pharmacy stock medication for his own use. He pleaded guilty to one count of theft.

Grant County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged certified nursing assistant Mary Jane Collins (NC10037960) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly entered into an inappropriate relationship with a patient.

 King County

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission ended the probation order against registered nurse Patricia M. Berryessa (RN00090633).

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission reinstated the license of licensed practical nurse Suzanne M. Clark (LP00035592) and placed her license on probation. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her license.

In December 2011 the Dental Commission granted the application of dental assistant Cynthia Roxana Cuellar (D160193176) and placed her registration on probation for three years. She was convicted of assault. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her registration.

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy entered into an agreed order with pharmacist Jeff Gebenus (PH00042289) and will monitor his license for two years. He directed pharmacy assistants to extemporaneously compound prescriptions which is outside the scope of practice for a pharmacy assistant. He must comply with terms and conditions set against his license.

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program granted the application of chemical dependency professional trainee Fabian Lamont Miller (CO60250601) and placed conditions against his certification with which he must comply. Terms and conditions were set against his certification to practice as a nursing assistant.

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program ended the probation order against chemical dependency professional trainee Patricia Ann Murphy (CO60143969).

In December 2011 the Agency Affiliated Counselor Program ended the probation order against Elena I. Samuels (CG60150539).

Klickitat County

In December 2011 the Massage Program ended the probation order against Christine R. Cruse (MA60012594).

Lewis County

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission charged registered nurse Michelle I. Eskridge (RN00153974) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly failed to document administration of medication to patient and failed to follow the medication orders for the patient.

Pierce County

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission placed the license of licensed practical nurse Clarice C. Freeman (LP00046535) on probation for 60 months. She was convicted of reckless driving, two counts of hit and run unattended vehicle, and failure to remain at injury accident. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her license.

In December 2011 the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Program charged Heidi Halsey (LF00001125) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly failed to comply with terms and conditions set against her license, failed to get parental consent for a minor patient’s parents, failed to respect a court-ordered parenting plan for a patient, failed to keep confidentiality when treating patients, violated boundaries with patients when giving confidential information, and failed to refer a patient to another therapist when ending treatment with the patient.

Snohomish County

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program ended the probation against chemical dependency professional trainee Melody J. Poe (CO60153654).

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy charged pharmacy assistant and pharmacy technician Melissa Retasket (VB60010626, VA60105412), also known as Melissa Rucker, with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly tested positive for methamphetamine during a random drug screen.

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission placed the license of registered nurse Carol Ann Schreck (RN00110142) on probation for two years. She failed to verify a physician had been notified in a change in condition of a patient contributing to the patient’s death. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her license.

Spokane County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program amended the final order against registered nursing assistant Alana Jane Barry (NA60120658) and placed her registration on probation for

three years. She took drugs with a patient on more than one occasion, and failed to respond to a Department of Health investigator inquiry. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her registration.

In December 2011 the Hypnotherapy Program released Jayne E. Helle (HP10000120) from terms and conditions set against her registration.

Thurston County

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy ended the probation order against pharmacist James H. Bryan (PH00022134).

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Deborah

Kendrick (NA00193662) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly yelled at a patient using

profane language and locked the patient in a bathroom for an extended period of time.

Whatcom County

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission entered into an agreed order with registered nurse and advanced registered nurse practitioner Michael Alan Gregory (RN00116736, AP30003674) and placed conditions against his license with which he must comply. He entered into a personal and sexual relationship with a patient.

Yakima County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program granted the application of registered nursing assistant Melanie Jane Arevalo (NA60244525) and placed conditions against her registration with which she must comply. She was charged with assault — domestic violence and failed to disclose the charges on her application.

In November 2011 the Board of Pharmacy denied the application of pharmacy assistant applicant Lettiysha Elena Morales (VB60253204). Morales was convicted of theft and negligent driving.

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy charged pharmacy assistant Jason R. Whiley (VB60076882) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly diverted controlled substances from his place of employment.

Out of State

California: In December 2011 the Nursing Commission placed the license of registered nurse Christine A. Gotelli (RN00104776) on probation for three years. The California State Board revoked her registered nurse license. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her license.

Georgia: In December 2011 the Nursing Commission lifted the suspension of registered nurse David B. Waters (RN60182762) and placed conditions against his license with which he must comply.

Note to Editors: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.

The department has also suspends the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.

Information about health care providers is also on the agency’s website.

To find this information click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov).

The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998.

This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700.

Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Here is the December 29th update issued by the Washington State Department of Health:

Note: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.

State disciplines health care providers

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions or withdrawn charges against health care providers in our state.

The department’s Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions, and advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 70 health care professions (e.g., medical doctors, nurses, counselors).

Information about health care providers is on the agency website. Click on “Provider Credential Search” on the left hand side of the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Asotin County

In December 2011 the Unlicensed Practice Program issued a notice of intent to issue cease and desist order to Dezirae Houser. She allegedly provided laser hair removal treatments to clients without a license to provide the treatment.

Benton County

In December 2011 the Health Care Assistant Program ended the probation order against Patricia G. Mendez (HC00155215).Chelan County

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program ended the probation order against chemical dependency professional trainee Mindy L. Heinz (CO60108523).

Douglas County

In December 2011 the Health Care Assistant Program placed the license of Jennifer Dawn Paiva (HC00142564) on probation. She used a physician’s signature stamp to write a prescription for massages for herself, and used her employment status to access and modify her own health care data. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her license.

Garfield County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program ended the probation order against registered and certified nursing assistant Philip A. Northamer (NA60125638, NC60133100).

Grant County

In December 2011 the Medical Commission amended the statement of charges against physician Mohammad H. Said (MD00018311). He allegedly provided substandard care to patients with chronic pain, and failed to comply with prior conditions set against his license.

King County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged certified nursing assistant Devon L. Duff (NC10059114), also known as Devon L. Burlingame, with unprofessional conduct. She was convicted of assault.

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy charged pharmacist Craig M. Goodmanson (PH00013643) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly failed to ensure proper supervision of the ancillary pharmacy personnel when he was a pharmacy manager.

In December 2011 the Medical Commission charged physician William H. Levy (MD00021325) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly provided substandard care when evaluating, diagnosing and treating a patient, putting the patient at unreasonable risk for harm.

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy charged pharmacy technician Eugene B. Povzner (VA00050624) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly allowed the pharmacy staff, where he oversaw the scheduling, to work beyond the required one pharmacist to three technicians ratio. He also allowed a pharmacist who was on probation with the board to work without supervision, and worked beyond the scope of a pharmacy technician. 

Okanogan County

In December 2011 the Board of Pharmacy charged pharmacy technician Kelly Anderson (VA00066204) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly diverted oxycodone from her place of employment.

In December 2011 the Board of Hearing and Speech charged audiologist Douglas E. Moomaw (LD00001173) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly failed to comply with terms and conditions set against his license.

Pierce County 

In December 2011 the Veterinary Board of Governors granted the application of veterinary technician Chiara Olga Colella (AT60219680) and placed her license on probation for two years. She was convicted of driving under the influence on two occasions, possession of a controlled substance — marijuana on two occasions, possession of marijuana 40 grams or less, and possession of cultivated marijuana. She must comply with terms and conditions set against her license.

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission charged licensed practical nurse Tina M. Ponton (LP00054570) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly withdrew controlled substances, and failed to administer, waste, or document administration, and wastage. She was charged with driving under the influence.

In December 2011 the Medical Commission ended the probation order against physician Catherine A. Richardson (MD00025799). Dr. Richardson’s license is unrestricted.

Skagit County

In December 2011 the Nursing Commission charged registered nurse Laura C. Edwards (RN00134145) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly withdrew medication, documented wastage but didn’t document administration to a patient, and took the medication for personal use.

Snohomish County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program ended the probation order against registered nursing assistant Julie Ann Davis (NA60123726).

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant and Health Care Assistant Programs charged registered nursing assistant and health care assistant Lacey R. Standley (NA60079452, HC60111183) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly submitted a prescription under a physician’s name for a family member without the physician’s knowledge or authorization. She also entered into a diversion program for the charge of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud or forged prescription.

Spokane County

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant, X-Ray Technician, and Health Care Assistant Programs charged Abbey C. Aune (NC10098509, XT6022138, HC60088462, HC60024035) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly obtained prescriptions using the name of her provider and colleague without knowledge or consent of the provider.

In November 2011 the Board of Pharmacy ended the probation order against pharmacy Northwest Health Systems (CF00058494).

Whatcom County

In December 2011 the Chemical Dependency Professional Program ended the probation order against chemical dependency professional trainee Kevin P. Maier (CO60138358).

In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Jacob Elijah Talamante (NA60098163) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly entered into a business transaction with patients, used a utility trailer of the patients without their permission, and used the patients’ debit card without their authorization.

Out of State

Oregon: In December 2011 the Nursing Assistant Program charged certified nursing assistant Jamie L. Armstrong (NC10057618) with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly failed to comply with terms and conditions set against her certification.

Oregon: In December 2011 the Nursing Commission charged registered nurse Cindy Susan Zapf (RN00114615) with unprofessional conduct. Her license to practice as a registered nurse in Oregon was placed on probation for two years. She was arrested for and convicted of shoplifting.

Tennessee: In December 2011 the Nursing Commission charged licensed practical nurse David L. Kinnaman (LP00053326) with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly sexually assaulted family members and patients.

Note to Editors: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.