Dallas Fort Worth Injury Lawyer Blog
The Texas Medical Board panel suspended the license of Dennis Donald Roberts, M.D., after ruling that Dr. Roberts’ continuation in the practice of medicine would present a continuing threat to the public welfare.
The temporary suspension hearing took place under the Board’s authority, granted by S.B. 104 of the 78th Legislature, to suspend or restrict a physician’s license without notice when it determines the physician’s continuation in practice would constitute a continuing threat to the public welfare. The suspension is effective immediately.
The action was based on Dr. Roberts’ abuse of anesthesia drugs. After Dr. Roberts withdrew from a residency program in May, 2007, the Texas Medical Board received a report that he had admitted a history of drug abuse. Dr. Robert’s use of an anesthesia drug while he was on duty as an emergency room physician on January 17, 2008, resulted in drug intoxication.
The length of a temporary suspension is indefinite and it remains in effect until the board takes further action.
Legal Analysis: The TMB has immense emergency powers granted by the legislature to act in the health and safety of the Texas citizens. Here was a case where clearly the TMB had to act fast and do the right thing.