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News Release — July 30, 2007
MEDICAL BOARD OF CALIFORNIA
July 30, 2007
Medical Board of California revokes license of Quincy physician
SACRAMENTO—The Medical Board of California has revoked the medical license of Quincy physician Gail Lee Pearson effective July 27, 2007. Pearson failed to file a Notice of Defense within 15 days after service upon her of the board's Accusation, and therefore waived her right to a hearing, and her license was revoked by default. Medical Board Executive Director Dave Thornton stated, "The mission of the Medical Board is to protect healthcare consumers. We work diligently to achieve our mission by vigorously enforcing the Medical Practice Act."
Pearson is accused of unprofessional conduct for violating Business and Professions Code sections 2239(a) and 2280, for practicing medicine while under the influence of alcohol and a controlled substance—marijuana—in a manner dangerous to herself, or to any other person, to the extent as to impair her ability to safely practice medicine.
On June 15, 2006, Pearson, who appeared sickly and thin, was interviewed by Medical Board investigators on an unrelated case. At the conclusion of the interview, she was advised of the board's Diversion Program and, at the request of the investigators, agreed to provide a urine specimen. The sample came back positive for alcohol and marijuana. After being advised of the positive results, Pearson admitted to having an alcohol problem and agreed to participate in the Diversion Program. Pearson, however, changed her mind after learning what the program expected of her. Pearson contacted the board and stated that she wished to surrender her medical license.
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The mission of the Medical Board is to protect healthcare consumers through the proper licensing and regulation of physicians and surgeons and certain allied healthcare professions and through the vigorous, objective enforcement of the Medical Practice Act.
If you have a question or complaint about the healthcare you are receiving, the board encourages you to visit its Web site at www.mbc.ca.gov or for questions call the Consumer Information Line at (916) 263-2382, or with complaints call (800) 633-2322.
For up-to-date information on board activities, please join our "Subscribers' List" at www.mbc.ca.gov/subscribers.htm.
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