Nevada State
Board of Medical Examiners
***MINUTES***
OPEN SESSION
BOARD MEETING NEVADA STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS
Video-Conferenced
from the Conference Rooms at the
Offices of
the Nevada State Contractors Board
9670 Gateway
Drive, Suite 100, Reno, Nevada 89521 and
2310
Corporate Circle, Suite 200, Henderson, Nevada 89074
on Friday,
May 30, 2003 - 9:30 a.m.
AND
Conference
Room at the Offices of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners
1105
Terminal Way, Suite 301, Reno, Nevada 89502
on Saturday,
May 31, 2003 - 8:30 a.m.
FRIDAY, MAY
30, 2003
MEMBERS
PRESENT: Cheryl A. Hug-English,
M.D., President
Jaculine C. Jones, Ed.D., Vice
President
Paul A. Stewart, M.D.,
Secretary-Treasurer
Joel N. Lubritz, M.D.
Donald H. Baepler, Ph.D., D.Sc.
Robin L. Titus, M.D.
Marlene J. Kirch
Stephen K. Montoya, M.D.
Sohail U. Anjum, M.D.
STAFF
PRESENT: Larry D. Lessly, J.D., Executive Director/Special Counsel
Maureen E. Lyons, Deputy Executive
Director
Richard J. Legarza, J.D., General
Counsel
Kasey M. Miller, Administrative
Assistant to Executive Director
Robert A. Frantz, Financial Manager
Helen J. Teeples, Financial Support
Assistant
ALSO
PRESENT: Charlotte M. Bible, J.D., Chief Deputy Attorney General
Mailing
Address: PO. Box 7238 - Reno, Nevada 89510-7238
Physical
Address: 1105 Terminal Way, Suite 301 - Reno, Nevada 89502-2144
(775)
688-2559 - Fax (775) 688-2321
E-mail:
nsbme@medboard.nv.gov - Website: www.medboard.nv.gov
(NSPO Rev.
3-03) (0) 1934
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May 30 &
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Open Session
Minutes
STAFF
PRESENT IN HENDERSON: Douglas
C. Cooper, Chief Investigator
ALSO PRESENT
IN HENDERSON: Michael J.
Garcia, R.R.T., Practitioner of Respiratory Care Advisory Committee Member
AGENDA ITEM
1
Call to
Order
The meeting
was called to order by Cheryl A. Hug-English, M.D., President, at 9:35 a.m.
Dr.
Hug-English welcomed everyone in Reno and Las Vegas and explained the video
conferencing. She thanked the staff and all board members for their hard work
during this legislative session. Dr. Hug-English wanted to publically thank Mr.
Lessly, Mr. Legarza and Mr. Keith Lee for their tremendous effort and many
hours spent during this session.
Dr. Hug-English
announced that Dr. Titus was appointed to serve as a member of the Special
Committee on Maintenance of Licensure of the Federation of State Medical Boards
of the United States, Inc.
Mr. Lessly
announced that a former board member, Victor Scaramosino, passed away on May
23, 2003. Dr. Hug-English sent condolences to family and friends.
AGENDA ITEM
2 Approval of Minutes -March 7 & 8. 2003 Board Meeting - Open/Closed
Sessions
Mrs. Kirch
moved to accept the minutes of the March 7 & 8, 2003 Board Meeting -
Open/Closed Sessions. Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously,
with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
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Minutes
AGENDA ITEM
4
Request from
Keith W. Macdonald. Executive Secretary of the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy
for Consideration of Making a Patron Donation in the Amount of $10.000.00 to
the Nevadans for Antibiotic Awareness Program
-William P.
Berliner, M.D., Nevadans for Antibiotic Awareness (Tabled from March 7 & 8,
2003 Board Meeting)
Mr. Lessly
referred to the letter in the agenda book explaining how the funds would be
used and the budget. Dr. Titus stated that at the March 2003 meeting she had
requested more information about the budget and how the funds would be used,
and that she was satisfied with the information provided.
Dr. Titus
moved to accept the request from Keith W. Macdonald, Executive Secretary of the
Nevada State Board of Pharmacy for making a patron donation in the amount of
$10,000.00 to the Nevadans for Antibiotic Awareness Program. Dr. Montoya
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
5
Report from
Practitioner of Respiratory Care Advisory Committee on Opinion Requested by the
Board at Its March 7 & 8. 2003 Meeting for an Appropriate Evaluation Method
by Which Practitioners of Respiratory Care Who Have Been Away from the Practice
of Respiratory Care for an Extended Period of Time May be Evaluated for
Competency
Mr. Garcia
(in Henderson) spoke on the report in the agenda book pertaining to the
appropriate evaluation method by which practitioners of respiratory care who
have been away from the practice of respiratory care for an extended period of
time may be evaluated for competency when applying for licensure. Mr. Garcia
explained that in keeping with the national standards the requirements should
be that a practitioner of respiratory care should have to take ten hours of
continuing education units every year the practitioner has been out of
practice, and after five years out of practice the practitioner should be
required to re-credential or re-test at the national level to test competency.
Dr.
Hug-English felt that the board should also require such practitioners of
respiratory care to have a mentor or monitoring period with someone in the
practice. Discussion ensued.
Dr.
Hug-English clarified for the board members that from zero to two years out of
the practice of respiratory care, a practitioner must maintain ten continuing
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May 30 &
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Open Session
Minutes
education
units and have a mentor, between two to five years out of the practice of
respiratory care, a practitioner must maintain ten continuing education units
every year out of practice and have a mentor; and after five years of being out
of the practice of respiratory care, a practitioner must take a nation exam.
Dr. Stewart
made a motion to accept the new policy for practitioners of respiratory care
who have been away from the practice of respiratory care for extended periods
of time seeking licensure in Nevada. Mrs. Kirch seconded the motion, and it
passed unanimously, with the chair voting in favor of the motion.
Dr.
Hug-English requested that Mr. Legarza draft a form with the new requirements
for Mr. Garcia and the committee to review and follow.
AGENDA ITEM
6 ,
Consideration
of Request by Washoe Medical Center for Approval of Practitioner of Respiratory
Care Training Programs Per NRS 630.047(1)(e) and (f)(1)
Mr. Lessly reviewed
the request letters from Washoe Medical Center for approval of practitioner of
respiratory care training programs and recommended approval.
Dr. Stewart
moved to approve the training programs. Dr. Lubritz seconded the motion, and it
passed unanimously, with the chair voting in favor of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
3 Personnel
- Annual
Review and Discussion of Professional Competency of Staff Open Session - Set
Staff Compensation
staff
compensation.
After
returning to open session Dr. Hug-English asked for a motion on
Dr. Baepler
recommended that executive staff, including the Executive Director/Special
Counsel, Deputy Executive Director, General Counsel, and Financial Manager be
awarded a six percent bonus payable immediately and that all other staff be given
a six percent increase in compensation effective July 1, 2003, with the
exception of Douglas Cooper and Lynette Nason whose salaries are to be
increased by the Executive Director immediately by an equity adjustment to
$57,140.00 for Mr. Cooper, Chief Investigator, and $40,000 for Mrs. Nason as a
result of her promotion to Chief License Specialist.
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May 30 &
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Minutes
Mrs. Kirch
made a motion to approve the compensations recommended by Dr. Baepler. Dr.
Baepler seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the chair voting
in favor of the motion.
- Consider
Board Payment of Full Health Insurance Premium for Staff - Larry D. Lessly,
J.D.. Executive Director/Special Counsel
Mr. Lessly
requested that the board pay full health insurance premiums for staff at an
additional cost of approximately $14.36 per employee per month to maintain a
health insurance deductible of $500.00 effective July 1, 2003.
Dr. Baepler
made a motion that the board pay the recommended full health insurance premium
for staff. Dr. Montoya seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the
Chair voting in favor of the motion.
- Discuss
Establishing Procedure for Securing Replacements for Retiring Staff Members:
Executive Director/Special Counsel. General Counsel. Financial Manager and
Chief License Specialist - Larry D. Lessly. J.D.. Executive Director/Special
Counsel
Mr. Lessly
informed the board members that Robert Frantz, Financial Manager, will be
retiring on September 30, 2003 and that Helen Teeples is in training to replace
him as a Financial Support Assistant. He also informed the board members that
Elizabeth Larraguetta, Chief License Specialist, is currently on maternity
leave, and that she will be leaving the staff to move to Las Vegas July 15,
2003. Mrs. Larraguetta will be replaced by Lynette Nason as Chief License
Specialist beginning June 1, 2003.
Mr. Lessly
advised the board that he and Mr. Legarza will be retiring no later than June
30, 2004, and that Mrs. Lyons will be leaving the staff in early 2004.
- Consider
and Discuss Additional Staff Requirements - Larry D. Lessly. J.D.. Executive
Director/Special Counsel
Mr. Lessly
discussed immediately adding two new deputy positions and that those deputies
would replace Mr. Legarza, General Counsel, and Mr. Lessly, Executive
Director/Special Counsel upon their retirements. Mr. Lessly indicated that he
recommended creation of a Deputy General Counsel position and a Deputy
Executive Secretary/Special Counsel position, and he would like authority to
fill those positions and hire another Medical Reviewer when it becomes
necessary. Mr. Lessly also discussed the possible salaries for these new
positions. The two deputies would begin immediately to assist with legal wok.
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Minutes
Dr. Hug-English
stated that Mr. Lessly's job description authorizes him to hire and train
additional staff as needed at the appropriate salaries he recommended to handle
the increasing workload.
Dr. Beapler
moved to approve the additional staff positions and recommended salaries. Dr.
Lubrtiz seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting
in favor of the motion.
Dr.
Hug-English directed that Mr. Lessly proceed as quickly as possible to fill the
new deputy staff positions, as the board needs additional staff and help with
the increasing legal workload immediately and coverage upon his and Mr.
Legarza's retirement.
Dr. Montoya
and Dr. Hug-English thanked Mr. Lessly and Mr. Legarza for remaining with the
board for a year to provide their much needed knowledge and train new staff and
their replacements.
RECESS
Dr.
Hug-English recessed for lunch at 12:05 p.m.
RECONVENE
Dr.
Hug-English reconvened the meeting at 1:05 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM
8 Reports
-
Legislative Update - Keith E. Lee. J.D.. Legislative Counsel
Mr. Lessly
asked that the board postpone the Legislative Update until Mr. Lee could be
present.
- Diversion
Program: Quarterly Report - Carol R. Bowers. R.N.. C.D. Executive Director
Nevada Health Professionals Assistance Foundation
Mr. Lessly
reported that Ms. Bowers had a conflict and was not able to attend the board
meeting, and he distributed her report to the board members for their review.
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Minutes
Dr.
Hug-English stated that she did not see any problems with the report, that Ms.
Bowers is doing a good job, and that the report indicates a proactive approach.
Dr. Stewart
moved to accept the Diversion Quarterly Report. Dr. Titus seconded the motion,
and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
- Physician
Assistant Advisory Committee - Advisory Committee Member
Mr.
Lanzolatta was not present at the board meeting, and a written report was
distributed for the board members to review.
Dr.
Hug-English was very interested that the report stated that every six years a
Physician's Assistant has to prove continuing competency as well as continuing
medical education, and that this requirement was ahead of any such policy for
medical doctors on this issue.
Dr. Titus
moved to approve the Physician Assistant Advisory Committee Report. Dr. Jones
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
-
Investigative Committee - Paul A. Stewart. M.D.. Chairperson
-
Consideration of Cases Recommended for Closure by the Committee
Dr. Stewart
reported that seven Medical Doctors appeared before the investigative committee
on May 29, 2003, and cases that were recommended for closure were provided to
the board by Dr. Stewart.
Dr. Anjum
moved to approve the recommended cases for closure from the May 29, 2003
investigative committee meeting. Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and it passed
unanimously with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
- Status of
Investiaative Case Load
Dr. Stewart
informed the board members that the investigative committee is current with all
it has been presented with, and the investigative staff has been very busy.
Each investigator has between eighty and one hundred cases currently assigned.
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Minutes
-
Consideration of Use of Additional Investigative Committee
Dr. Stewart
informed the investigative committee that the number of cases is going to
double due to new legislation and malpractice cases being filed in court. He
suggested that the board create another investigative committee, with both
investigative committees consisting of two Medical Doctors and one public
member.
Dr. Baepler
made a motion to create a second investigative committee. Dr. Stewart seconded
the motion, and it passes unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
-
Consideration of Revision to Secretarv-Treasurer Job Description
Mr. Lessly
suggested that the board consider revising the current job description of the
Secretary-Treasurer of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners to read that
the Secretary-Treasurer chair "an" investigative committee instead of
"the" investigative committee.
Dr. Titus
moved to revise the job description of the Secretary-Treasurer. Dr. Lubrtiz
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
-
Secretary-Treasurer - Paul A. Stewart. M.D., Secretary Treasurer
-
Consideration of Adoption of Tentative Budget for Fiscal Year 2003 - 2004
Dr. Stewart
reviewed two handouts regarding the budget status as of June 30, 2003 and the
proposed tentative budget for the fiscal year 2003-2004. Dr. Stewart explained
the Profit and Loss statement and pointed out that the board budget is very
close to its actual costs for this fiscal year. He stated that the board will
have to raise registration fees for the 2005-2007 biennium in order to continue
to operate past June 30, 2005. Dr. Stewart also spoke about SB250 and explained
the extra expenses the board would incur if that bill passed.
Discussion
ensued.
Dr. Montoya
made a motion to approve the tentative budget as submitted for fiscal year
2003-2004. Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the
Chair voting in favor of the motion.
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May 30 &
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Minutes
- Federation
of State Medical Boards of the United States. Inc. 2003 Annual Meeting -
Jaculine C Jones Ed.D Vice President Paul A. Stewart, M.D..
Secretary-Treasurer: Donald H. Baepler, Ph.D., D.Sc.: and Robin L. Titus, M.D.
Dr. Jones
reported that she attended the Federation of State Medical Boards of the United
States, Inc.'s 2003 Annual Meeting as a voting delegate and that it was very
interesting be able to speak with every person who was running for office and
ask them the questions she had prepared. She stated that the meeting was much
more interactive with small group sessions, and she described the different
classes and sessions and perspectives of board members from other medical
licensing boards.
Dr. Baepler
discussed the sessions he attended and the session he led. Dr. Baepler felt the
meeting topics were more relevant compared to prior meetings, and that the
meeting addressed new and current topics, such as ethics and medical research
and new groups of medical professionals.
Dr. Titus
reported that all of the states seem to be discussing and attempting to deal
with the continuing competency issue. She stated that each state had an
opportunity to give a power-point presentation to offer information and help to
other states, and she hoped that Nevada would give a presentation at next year's
meeting. Dr. Titus thought that it looks as though continuing competency
evaluation will eventually be mandated legislatively throughout the United
States. She also stated that representatives from other states questioned her
about the steps Nevada is taking, because the Nevada board is known as being
progressive and a leader in this field.
Dr.
Hug-English stated that she felt the Nevada board was represented quite well by
our board members and that other state medical boards do look to our board at
the Federation and National level as a leader, and that Nevada is known as a
progressive medical board nationwide.
AGENDA ITEM
7
Legal Reports
- Richard J Legarza J D, General Counsel; Charlotte M. Bible, J.D., Assistant
Chief Deputy Attorney General
- Board Ordered
Terms. Conditions and Probation Status
Mr. Legarza
reported that all licensees are current with the terms of their probationary
status. Mr. Legarza also reported that Elliot Schmerler, M.D. has filed a
petition for Judicial review of his revocation of licensure, and that Lambert
Abeyetunge, M.D. has also filed a petition for Judicial Review of his
disciplinary action.
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May 30 &
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Minutes
Dr. Stewart
informed the board members that there are three Medical Doctors who are
currently incarcerated and still hold medical licenses in the state of Nevada
whom the investigative committee needs to serve with a formal complaint. He
explained that the filing against a prisoner takes more time, but theses
physicians are not a threat to the public since they are not practicing while
incarcerated.
- Board
Litigation Status
Mrs. Bible
state that she had no report, as Mr. Legarza is currently handling all the
cases.
AGENDA ITEM
9
Executive
Staff Reports - Larry D. Lessly. J.D.. Executive Director/Special Counsel.
Maureen E. Lyons, Deputy Executive Director
-
Consideration of Request for Staff Attendance at Educational Meetings
Mr. Lessly
requested that Lynnette Nason, Chief License Specialist, attend the National
Board for Respiratory Care conference in Kansas City and stated that the costs
are assumed by the National organization.
Dr. Jones
moved to authorize Ms. Nason to attend the conference. Dr. Montoya seconded the
motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
-
Consideration of Approval of 2002 Board Annual Report
Mr. Lessly
reviewed the boards 2002 Annual Report with the board members for consideration
of approval.
Dr. Baepler
moved to accept approval of the boards 2002 Annual Report. Dr. Jones seconded
the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
-
Consideration of Continuation of Contract with Nevada Broadcaster's Association
for the Board's Public Service Announcement Program for July 1 2003 through
September 30,2003
Mr. Lessly
requested approval for the next three months, July 2003 through September 2003,
for continuation of the contract with the Nevada Broadcaster's Association for
the Board's public service announcements at a cost of $5,000 per month and to
add some
10
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May 30 &
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Minutes
additional
public service announcements.
Dr. Jones stated
that she feels it is very important for the board to keep current with the
public service announcements, and that the board is getting good feedback from
the announcements.
Dr.
Hug-English also stated that both the website and the public service announcement
are very beneficial to the public because members of the public accesses
information differently.
Dr. Stewart
informed the board that the Senate Labor and Commerce Committee thought the
announcements were a waste of the board's money.
Dr. Lubritz
questioned whether the board needs to renew the contract or should the board
withhold approval for a few months to see if the need is really there.
Discussion
ensued about the pros and cons of keeping the advertising.
Dr. Lubritz
made a motion to continue the contract with the Nevada Broadcaster's
Association for July 2003 through September 2003 at a cost of $5,000 per month.
Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting
in favor of the motion.
Mr. Lessly
will ask Bob Fisher of the Nevada Broadcaster's Association to appear at the
September 2003 board meeting to discuss the public service announcements.
- Status of
Additional Office Space and Consideration of Additional Office Location(s)
Mr. Lessly
informed the board members that all of the files and staff have made the move
to the new offices and locations discussed at the March board meeting, and that
the lease for all space was previously extended to six years.
Mr. Lessly
requested the board members to authorize the staff to report back to the board
on the possible addition of a board office in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Mrs. Kirch
moved to refer to the staff the matter of an additional office in the Las
Vegas, Nevada area. Dr. Montoya seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously,
with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
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Minutes
- Status of
Processing July 1, 2003 - June 30, 2005 Biennial Licensure Registration
Renewals
Mr. Lessly
reported on the current status of the 2003-2005 biennial licensure registration
renewals. As of 5:00 p.m. on May 29, 2003 the board has processed 2,507 active
licenses and 647 inactive licenses. Mr. Lessly anticipates 5,000 active
licenses and 800-100 inactive licenses.
identification
cards.
Dr. Titus
expressed her appreciation for the new plastic wallet
AGENDA ITEM
17
Ratification
of Licenses Issued , and Reinstatements of Licensure and Changes of Licensure
Status Approved Since the March 7 & 8. 2003 Board Meeting
The board member,
reviewed the handout in the agenda book.
Mrs. Krich
moved to ratify licenses issued, reinstatements of licensure, and changes of
licensure status approved since the March 7 & 8, 2003 board meeting. Dr.
Montoya seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting
in favor of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
19
Election of
Officers and Appointment of Committee Members
Dr.
Hug-English announced that nominations were open for election of President of
the board.
Dr. Stewart
nominated Dr. Hug-English for another term as President. Dr. Lubritz seconded
the nomination, and it passed unanimously.
Dr.
Hug-English thanked the board members for the vote of confidence and stated she
considered it a privilege and honor to serve with the board members.
Dr.
Hug-English announced that nominations were open for election of Vice-President
of the board.
Dr. Baepler
nominated Dr. Jones for another term as Vice-President. Dr. Lubritz seconded
the motion, and it passed unanimously.
12
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May 30 &
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Dr.
Hug-Engish announced that nominations were open for Secretary-Treasurer of the
board.
Dr. Montoya
nominated Dr. Baepler to serve as Secretary-Treasurer. Mrs. Kirch seconded the
motion, and it passed unanimously.
Dr. Hug-English
announced the appointments for investigative committees. She appointed Dr.
Baepler as Secretary-Treasurer to Chair one investigative committee, and Dr.
Titus and Dr. Montoya to serve with Dr. Baepler. She appointed Dr. Lubritz to
Chair the second investigative committee, and Dr. Anjum and Mrs. Kirch to serve
with Dr. Lubritz.
Dr.
Hug-English also appointed Dr. Jones as Vice-President to serve as Chair of the
internal affairs committee, and stated that she will appoint committee members
to the committee at a later date when required.
Dr. Jones
commended Dr. Hug-English for her professionalism and dedication in dealing
with the legislature. The board members concurred.
Dr.
Hug-English thanked the board members and states she thought that the legislative
body now has a better understanding of how the board functions and its purposes
and hopefully has a more positive view of the board and its responsibilities.
RECESS
Dr.
Hug-English called a recess at 2:35.
RECONVENE
Dr.
Hug-English reconvened the meeting at 4:30.
AGENDA ITEM
10
Consideration
of Amendments to Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 630 - Staff Recommendations
for Potential Amendments to NAC Chanter 630
Mr. Legarza distributed
copies of public comments received for members' review. Mr. Legarza reviewed
and explained the staff recommendations and potential amendments to NAC Chapter
630.
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Minutes
Ms. Kirch
moved to approve the recommendations and that potential amendments to be sent
out to workshops in June 2003 and hearing in July 2003. Dr. Stewart seconded
the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
- Adoption
of New Regulation: NAC 630 Requirements
for Biennial Registration -
Dr. Baepler
made a motion to table this item until the board receives input on this issue.
He stated it is clear to the board members that there is an interest in this in
the public and physicians and that there is a lot of misunderstanding on this
matter. Dr. Baepler also felt that "competency" is not the correct
word to use and that the committee needs to do more research and discussion on
this matter with licensees. He suggested the board make additional contact with
licensees to get more information and input and bring the matter to some
conclusion that is not threatening to the licensees.
Dr. Stewart
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
20
Public
Comment
Dr. Havins
thanked the board for having a teleconference and congratulated and thanked Dr.
Stewart for his eight years on the board.
RECESS
Dr.
Hug-English recessed the meeting at 4:50 p.m.
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May 30 &
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Minutes
SATURDAY.
MAY 31. 2003
MEMBERS
PRESENT: Cheryl A. Hug-English,
M.D., President
Jaculine C. Jones, Ed.D., Vice
President
Paul A. Stewart, M.D.,
Secretary-Treasurer
Joel N. Lubritz, M.D.
Donald H. Baepler, Ph.D., D.Sc.
Robin L. Titus, M.D.
Marlene J. Kirch
Sohail U. Anjum, M.D.
Stephen K. Montoya, M.D.
STAFF
PRESENT: Larry D. Lessly, J.D., Executive Director
Maureen E. Lyons, Deputy Executive
Director
Richard J. Legarza, J.D., General
Counsel
Kasey M. Miller, Administrative
Assistant to Eexcutive Director
Helena J. Teeples, Financial Support
Assistant
Doug C. Cooper, Chief Investigator
Julie M. Espinoza, Credentialing
Specialist
ALSO
PRESENT: Charlotte M. Bible, J.D., Assistant Chief Deputy Attorney
General
RECONVENE
Cheryl A.
Hug-English, M.D., President, reconvened the meeting at 8:35 a.m. Dr.
Hug-English asked the board members what they felt about the teleconferencing
of the meeting.
Dr. Lubrtiz
suggested that the board keep a record of the attendees in Las Vegas and Reno
for a year to see if the cost is worth the board's money.
Dr.
Hug-English instructed the staff to research the issue.
Mr. Lessly
informed the board that to set our board conference room up for
teleconferencing the cost would be approximately $50,000.00 based on a previous
discussion on this item and recommendation to the board.
Discussion
ensued.
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Minutes
Mr. Lessly
suggested that more information be given to the board members regarding
teleconferencing at the September 2003 board meeting.
Mr. Lessly
discussed the Legislative Report agenda item and reported on the bills to date
as Mr. Lee was unable to attend the meeting due to the legislative session.
AGENDA ITEM
11
Appearances
for Consideration of Acceptance of Applications for Practitioner of Respiratory
Care Licensure (Tabled from March 7 & 8, 2003 Meeting)
- James
Grieco, C.R.T. - application acceptance
Dr.
Hug-English questioned Mr. Grieco as to his activities relating to the field of
Respiratory Care since 1995.
Mr. Grieco
explained to the board members that he re-certified with the Nation Board of
Respiratory Care in April 2001, and that he has continuing education units, but
he hasn't kept a record of them, and they are not directly related to the
practice of Respiratory Care. Mr. Grieco informed the board that he currently
is certified by the Nation Board of Respiratory Care but is an inactive status.
Dr. Baepler
explained the new recommendation of ten continuing education units per year,
and informed Mr. Grieco that he needs to obtain twenty continuing education
units relating to the practice of respiratory care before the board can grant
him a license.
Dr. Titus
moved to accept Mr. James Grieco, C.R.T.'s application for respiratory care
contingent upon documentation of his twenty hours of continuing education units
related to the practice of respiratory care. Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and
it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
- Bruce
Jones, R.R.T. - application acceptance
Mr. Jones
did not appear before the board as expected.
Dr.
Hug-English informed staff that if Mr. Jones contacts the board the staff is to
inform him that he needs to take the National Board of Repiratory Care exam and
get the necessary hours of continuing education units needed before the board
can accept his application for licensure.
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Minutes
Dr. Titus
moved to table this agenda item until Mr. Bruce Jones, R.R.T. contacts the
board. Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and it carried.
AGENDA ITEM
12
Appearances
for Consideration of Acceptance of Applications for Licensure and Changes of
Licensure Status
(a) Keith
Brill, M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Montoya
questioned Dr. Brill regarding his malpractice case during his third year of
residency .
Dr. Brill
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suits filed against him
during his third year of residency and informed the board that the case was not
dismissed.
Dr. Stewart
moved to accept Keith Brill, M.D.'s application for licensure in Nevada upon
the completion of his application. Dr. Titus seconded the motion, and it passed
unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
(b) Ronette
Cyka. M.D. - inactive to active status acceptance
Dr. Montoya
questioned Dr. Cyka regarding the reasons why she has not practiced medicine
since 1989 and what she has done to keep current.
Dr. Cyka
informed that board that she is current with her continuing medical education
requirements and that she has practiced in another state.
Dr. Titus
moved to accept Ronette Cyka, M.D.'s application for change of status. Mrs. Kirch
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
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Minutes
(c) Mark
Degen. M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Lubritz
questioned Dr. Degen regarding his malpractice case and his postgraduate
education which was not ACGME approved.
Dr. Degen
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suit filed against him
during his internship rotation and explained the post graduate training.
Dr. Jones
moved to accept Mark Degen, M.D.'s application for licensure and approve the
post graduate education. Mrs. Kirch seconded the motion, and it passed
unanimously with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
(d) Robert
Dillow. M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Anjum
questioned Dr. Dillow regarding his malpractice case. Dr. Dillow explained the
circumstances surrounding the malpractice suit filed against him.
Dr. Lubritz moved
to accept Robert Dillow, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr. Anjum seconded
the motion, and it passed unanimously with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
(e) Kip
Dorsey, C.R.T. - application acceptance
Dr. Baepler
questioned Mr. Dorsey regarding his not practicing in the field of respiratory
care since 1998. Dr. Baepler also informed Mr. Dorsey that since he has not
practiced in over five years, he will need to re-certify with the National
Board of Respiratory Care.
Mr. Dorsey
informed the board that he has worked as an Emergency Medical Technician and
taken many continuing education units relating to respiratory care and
emergency care.
Dr. Baepler
moved to accept Kip Dorsey, C.T.R's application for licensure upon his
successful completion of his re-certification exam. Dr. Jones seconded the
motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
(f ) Stuart
Engel, M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Lubritz
questioned Dr. Engel regarding his malpractice cases.
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Minutes
Dr. Engel
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suits filed against
him.
Dr. Lubritz
moved to accept Stuart Engle, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr. Montoya
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
(g) Deborah
Escuadro-Lyman. C.R.T. - application acceptance
Dr. Baepler
questioned Mrs. Escuadro-Lyman regarding him being out of the practice of
respiratory care since September 1999, and that her last certification being in
July 1994.
Ms.
Escuadro-Lyman explained to the board her activities since September 1999.
Dr. Baepler
moved to accept Deborah Escuadro-Lyman, C.R.T.'s application for licensure upon
her successful completion of thirty hours of continuing education units related
to the practice of respiratory care. Dr. Lubritz seconded the motion, and it
passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
(h) Karen
Giarrusso, M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Jones
questioned Dr. Giarrusso regarding physical and mental health as it relates to
the practice of medicine.
Dr.
Giarrusso explained the circumstances surrounding her situation.
Dr. Jones
moved to accept Karen Giarrusso, M.D.'s application for licensure. Mrs. Kirch
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
(i ) Hitesh
Goel, M.D. - application acceptance
Mrs. Kirch
questioned Dr. Goel regarding his breach of ethical standards resulting in
probation during his first year of residency.
Dr. Goel
explained the circumstance surrounding the situation of his probation.
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Minutes
Dr. Lubritz
moved to accept Hitesh Goel, M.D.'s application for licensure. Mrs. Kirch seconded
the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
(j ) Keir
Hales. M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Titus
questioned Dr. Hales regarding his malpractice case.
Dr. Hales
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suit filed against him.
Dr. Montoya
moved to accept Keir Hales, M.D.'s application for licensure. Mrs. Kirch
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
(k) Markey
Hand. P.A.-C - application acceptance
Dr. Baepler
questioned Mrs. Hand regarding her not having practiced medicine since December
2001.
Mrs. Hand
explained the circumstances and explained that she has been current with her
continuing medical education hours and that she just returned from a one week
annual meeting with the NCCPA. She informed the board that she plans to work in
Pulmonary Medicine as she did before taking time off from practice.
Dr. Titus
moved to accept Markey Hand, P.A.-C's application for licensure. Dr. Jones
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
(I ) Brian
Lee. M.D. - limited licensure application acceptance
Dr. Lee did
not appear at the board meeting to answer questions regarding his application
for licensure.
Dr. Montoya
moved to table this matter. Dr. Baepler seconded the motion, and the motion was
tabled unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
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May 30 &
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(m) David
Nace, M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Stewart
questioned Dr. Nace regarding his character, professional competency, and
physical and mental health as it relates to the practice of medicine.
Dr. Nace
explained the circumstances surrounding his situation.
Dr. Stewart
moved to accept David Nace, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr. Baepler
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
(n) Uma
Natarajan, M.D. - limited licensure application acceptance
Dr. Titus
questioned Dr. Natarajan regarding the circumstances of her application for
limited licensure.
Dr.
Natarajan explained the circumstances of her application.
Dr. Anjum
moved to accept Uma Natarajan, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr. Baepler seconded
the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the
motion.
(o) Harris
Newmark, III. M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Anjum
questioned Dr. Newmark regarding his malpractice cases.
Dr. Newmark
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suits filed against
him. He informed the board that he would only be reading films for certain
groups in Nevada.
Dr. Montoya
moved to accept Harris Newmark, III, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr.
Jones seconded the motion and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in
favor of the motion.
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Minutes
(p) JoAnna
Nichols, C.R.T. - application acceptance
Dr. Baepler
questioned Mrs. Nichols regarding her not having practiced respiratory care
since March 1999.
Mrs. Nichols
explained that she is not current with her continuing education units, but she
does not require re-certification since she has not been out of the practice of
respiratory care for more than 5 years.
Dr. Baepler moved
to accept JoAnna Nichols, C.T.R.'s application for licensure contingent upon
her receiving forty hours of continuing education units relating to the
practice of respiratory care. Dr. Stewart seconded the motion and it passed
unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
(q) Todd
Radivan P A.-C - application acceptance
Dr. Titus
questioned Mr. Radivan regarding his malpractice cases and his character,
professional competence, and physical and mental health as it relates to the
practice of medicine.
Mr. Radivan
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suits filed against
him. He informed the members that he currently works at University Medical
Center under a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and would like to begin working
under a Medical Doctor also.
Dr. Titus
moved to accept Todd Radivan, P.A.-C's application for licensure. Dr. Lubrtiz
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
(r ) Michael
Reiner, M.D. - acceptance for change to unrestricted status from county
restricted status
Mrs. Kirch
questioned Dr. Reiner, for confirmation that he has worked in Pahrump, Nevada
since April 1, 1999.
Dr. Reiner
explained that he has practiced full-time since April 1, 1999 at Pahrump
Medical Center with a county restricted license and is now eligible and
requests an unrestricted license. He informed the board that he intends to work
in Pahrump four days a week and one day a week in Las Vegas.
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Minutes
Mrs. Kirch
moved to accept Michael Reiner, M.D.'s change of status on his license. Dr.
Jones seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in
favor of the motion.
(s) Reynaldo
Santos, Jr., M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Titus
questioned Dr. Santos regarding his pending malpractice case.
Dr. Santos
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpracitce suit filed against him
based on an occurrence during his first year of residency.
Dr. Baepler
moved to accept Reynaldo Santos, Jr., M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr.
Jones seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in
favor of the motion:
(t ) Floyd
Stern. M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Lubrtiz
questioned Dr. Stem regarding his malpracitce cases and his not having seen
patients in a clinical setting since 1998, when he retired.
Dr. Stern
explained the circumstances surrounding the malpractice suits filed against
him. He informed the board that he does not intend on doing surgery once
returning to the practice of medicine. Dr. Stem stated that he took and passed
the Special Purpose Exam in February 2003, and he is current with his
continuing medical education requirements.
Mrs. Kirch
moved to accept Floyd Stern, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr. Stewart
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion. Dr. Lubritz recused himself since he had recently interviewed
Dr. Stem for a possible position in his practice.
(u) Harry
Yeates, M.D. - application acceptance
Dr. Anjum
questioned Dr. Yeates regarding his malpractice case. Dr. Yeates explained the
circumstances surrounding the malpractice suit filed against him.
23
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Minutes
Dr. Anjum
moved to accept Harry Yeates, M.D.'s application for licensure. Dr. Stewart
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
RECESS
Recess for
lunch at 1:05 p.m.
RECONVENE
Reconvened
at 1:45 p.m.
Dr. Stewart,
Dr. Anjum, Dr. Baepler, and Dr. Montoya left the meeting at 1:30 p.m., as they
were not adjudicators in the adjudications on the agenda.
Dr.
Hug-English thanked Dr. Stewart for his dedicated service to the board the past
eight years.
AGENDA ITEM
15
Adjudication
in the Matter of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners vs. Kenneth D.
Mower. M.D.. Case No. 02-5717-1
Adjudicating
Board Members: Cheryl A. Hug-English, President; Jaculine C. Jones, Ed.D., Vice
President; Joel N. Lubritz, M.D.; Robin L. Titus, M.D.; Marlene J. Kirch; and
Sohail U. Anjum, M.D.
Dr.
Hug-English reviewed the one count of malpractice alleged in the formal
complaint against Dr. Mower. She confirmed that all adjudicating board members were
present and had read the adjudication material.
Ms. Bible
addressed a provision regarding a lawyer making a request after the case has
been deemed submitted, and it was her recommendation to deny the request of Mr.
Rosenberg's, Dr. Mower's lawyer, for additional time to argue this case.
Dr.
Hug-English denied the request of Mr. Rosenberg.
Dr. Lubritz
moved to go into closed session. Dr. Jones seconded the motion, and it passed
unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
24
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May 30 &
31, 2003 Board Meeting
Open Session
Minutes
Upon
returning to open session, Dr. Titus moved to find Dr. Mower guilty of the one
count of malpractice alleged in the formal complaint of an excessive dose of
morphine to a patient not terminal ultimately leading to the patient's death.
Dr. Lubritz seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair
voting in favor of the motion.
Dr. Hug-
English added that the morphine was given during a very short period of time to
a woman showing no distress and there was no justification to give her any
morphine, especially 100 mg.
Mrs. Kirch
moved to go back into closed session to deliberate on the appropriate
sanctions. Dr. Lubritz seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the
Chair voting in favor of the motion.
Upon
returning to open session, Dr. Jones moved to revoke Dr. Mower's license to
practice medicine in the state of Nevada and assess him the costs of the
investigation and disciplinary proceedings. Mrs. Kirch seconded the motion
pointing out the severity of the case in which he jeopardized the health,
safety, and welfare of the citizens of Nevada.
Dr.
Hug-English took a roll call vote. Dr. Anjum abstained from the vote. All other
members were in favor of the motion, and the motion passed unanimously, with
the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
14
Adjudication
in the Matter of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners vs. Rene Claudia
Bovelle. M.D.. Case No. 02-19814-1
Adjudicating
Board Members: Cheryl A. Hug-English, President; Jaculine C. Jones, Ed.D., Vice
President; Joel N. Lubritz, M.D.; Robin L. Titus, M.D.; Marlene J. Kirch; and
Sohail U. Anjum, M.D.
Dr.
Hug-English reviewed the formal complaint against Dr. Bovelle in which it was
alleged that she practiced medicine in Nevada while holding only an inactive
status Nevada medical license. She confirmed that all adjudicating board
members were present and had read the adjudication material.
Dr. Lubritz
moved to go into closed session to deliberate on the allegations contained in
the formal complaint. Mrs. Kirch seconded the motion, and it passed
unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
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Open Session
Minutes
Upon
returning to open session, Dr. Lubritz moved to find Dr. Bovelle guilty of the
allegations contained in the formal complaint, in that she did practice
medicine in the state of Nevada with an inactive status license. Mrs. Kirch
seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor
of the motion.
Dr. Titus
moved to go into closed session to deliberate over the appropriate sanctions.
Dr. Lubritz seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair
voting in favor of the motion.
Upon
returning to open session, Dr. Titus moved to impose a public reprimand on Dr.
Bovelle, fine her $5,000.00, assess the costs of investigation and disciplinary
proceedings, and require her to take two hours of continuing medical education in
medical ethics. Dr. Lubritz seconded the motion. Dr. Hug-English took a roll
call vote, all members were in favor of the motion, and it passed unanimously,
with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
16
Adjudication
in the Matter of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners vs. Robert W.
Watson, M.D.. Case No. 02-12823-1
Adjudicating
Board Members: Cheryl A. Hug-English, President; Jaculine C. Jones, Ed.D., Vice
President; Joel N. Lubritz, M.D.; Robin L. Titus, M.D.; Marlene J. Kirch; and
Sohail U. Anjum, M.D.
Dr.
Hug-English reviewed the formal complaint against Dr. Watson in which it was
alleged that he failed to appear on two occasions before the Investigative
Committee of the board investigating a complaint against him. She confirmed that
all adjudicating members were present and had read the adjudication material.
The members
stayed in open session to deliberate on the allegations contained in the formal
complaint against Dr. Watson.
Dr. Jones
moved to find Dr. Watson guilty of the allegations contained in the formal
complaint. Mrs. Kirch seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously with the
Chair voting in favor of the motion.
Dr. Lubritz
moved to go into closed session to deliberate on the appropriate sanctions. Dr.
Jones seconded the motion and it passed unanimously, with the Chair voting in
favor of the motion.
26
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May 30 &
31, 2003 Board Meeting
Open Session
Minutes
Upon
returning to open session, Dr. Titus moved to issue Dr. Watson a public reprimand,
assess the costs of the investigation and disciplinary proceedings, fine him
$5,000.00 and require that he complete an additional two hours ofcontinuing
medical education hours in medical ethics within sixty days of the order. Mrs.
Kirch seconded the motion. Dr. Hug-English took a roll call vote, and all
members were in favor of the motion, and it passed unanimously, with the Chair
voting in favor of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM
13
Consideration
of Acceptance of Voluntary Surrender of License in the State of Nevada While
Under Investigation and Stipulation for Settlement in the Matter of the Nevada
State Board of Medical Examiners vs. Richard R. Conte M.D. Case No. 03-8108-1
Adjudicating Board Members: Cheryl A. Hug-English, President; Jaculine C. Jones,
Ed.D., Vice President; Joel N. Lubritz, M.D.; Robin L. Titus, M.D.; Marlene J.
Kirch; and Sohail U. Anjum, M.D.
Dr.
Hug-English confirmed that all adjudicating members were present and had read
the information provided.
Mr. Legarza
reviewed the points of the case regarding Dr. Conte.
Dr. Titus
moved to accept Dr. Conte's Voluntary Surrender while under investigation and
Stipulation for Settlement. Dr. Jones seconded the motion. Dr. Hug-English took
a roll call vote, and all members were in favor of the motion, and it passed
unanimously, with the Chair voting in favor of the motion.
AGENDA ITME
19
Matters for
Future Agenda
Dr.
Hug-English asked that the staff supply the board members with information
regarding teleconferencing, the audit, and the web site at the September 2003
board meeting.
AGENDA ITEM
20
Public
Comment
There was no
public comment.
ADJOURNMENT
Dr.
Hug-English adjourned the meeting at 3:20 p.m. 27