Physicians investigated for inappropriate prescribing by the Oregon Board of Medical Examiners.

L. Kofoed, J. D. Bloom, M. H. Williams, C. Rhyne, M. Resnick

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

We retrospectively reviewed all allegations of inappropriate prescribing investigated by the Oregon Board of Medical Examiners from 1981 through 1986. Inappropriate prescription writing accounted for 51% of all investigations during this period, with controlled drugs, primarily opiates and benzodiazepines, accounting for most complaints. Of 130 physicians investigated, more than half had previous complaints; 50 were ultimately restricted or disciplined by the board. Inappropriate prescribing of controlled drugs is probably underdetected and frequently repeated. Available literature suggests that inappropriate prescribing of other drugs, especially antibiotics, is extremely common, but such problems were rarely identified by the current discovery and review processes of the Oregon board. Inappropriate prescribing will require increased attention from physician educators and licensing boards.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)597-601
Number of pages5
JournalWestern Journal of Medicine
Volume150
Issue number5
StatePublished - May 1989
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Physicians investigated for inappropriate prescribing by the Oregon Board of Medical Examiners.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this