For Immediate Release: October 23, 2003 (03-172)

Contact:
Deanna Whitman, Communications Office (360) 236-4022

OLYMPIA ¾ The Health Professions Quality Assurance Office (HPQA) of the Washington State Department of Health has revoked or suspended the licenses, certifications, or registrations of health care providers in the state.

HPQA is responsible for protecting and enhancing the health of the people of
Washington State by assuring access to safe, competent health care providers. HPQA personnel work in partnership with 12 boards, four commissions, and nine advisory committees to set licensing standards for 55 health care professions (e.g., medical doctors, nurses, counselors).

Information on Washington’s health care providers is now available online at our new Provider Credential Search Web site (https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/hpqa1/Application/Credential_Search/profile.asp ). 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 HPQA, 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.

Grays Harbor County
In September 2003, the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of registered nurse Catherine Huttula (RN00049441). She failed to comply with the terms and conditions of a prior order.

King County
In September 2003, the Nursing Assistant Program indefinitely suspended the certification of Priscilla L. Martinez, a nursing assistant (NC10024804). She has failed to comply with the terms and conditions of a prior order.

In September 2003, the Nursing Commission entered into agreement with registered nurse Laura M. Pretty (RN00115166). Pretty agrees to surrender her license to practice as a registered nurse.

In September 2003, the Nursing Assistant Program revoked the registration of Lea Ella Swan, a nursing assistant (NA00079163), for 10 years. Swan accepted advance payment from a patient and then failed to provide the services to the patient.

In September 2003, the Department of Health suspended the credential of pharmacy assistant Henry Tran (VA00050176) for non-compliance with a child support order.

Pacific County
In October 2003, the Nursing Assistant Program suspended the certification of Lorrie R. Garcia, a nursing assistant (NC10032292), for one year. She engaged in a pattern of neglecting residents and was ultimately terminated from her place of employment.

Snohomish County
In September 2003, the Department of Health suspended the license of nursing assistant Norma T. Infante (NA00078129). Infante has not complied with a child support order.

Spokane County
In September 2003, the Department of Health suspended the license of nursing assistant Debra Ann Deschamp (NC10061986) for not complying with a child support order.

Whatcom County
In September 2003, the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of registered nurse Nancy L. King (RN00092410). She must also pay a $2,000 fine. King diverted controlled substances from her workplace for her personal use.

Whitman County
In September 2003, the Veterinary Board of Governors suspended the registration of Roni M. Thaves, a registered veterinary technician (AT00001653) until she complies with terms and conditions. At that time, her registration will be placed on probation. Thaves diverted a controlled substance from her employer for personal use.

Out of State
(Many health care providers hold licenses in more than one state. Department of Health receives information each month from national groups on disciplined health care providers. When another state’s regulatory group takes actions, the equivalent board/commission/program in Washington files unprofessional conduct charges against the provider’s Washington credential.)

California: In September 2003, the Department of Health suspended the credential of pharmacy assistant Henry Tran (VA00050176) for not complying with a child support order.

California: In September 2003, the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of Hilda Woo, a registered nurse licensed in Washington (RN00110151). The California Board of Registered nursing revoked her license in 2002.

Idaho: In September 2003, the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of Constance L. Haines, a registered nurse licensed in Washington State (RN00099143). While working in Idaho, Haines diverted a narcotic for her own-non-therapeutic use.

Oregon: In September 2003, the Board of Nursing Home Administrators revoked the license of Marguerite McCracken, a nursing home administrator licensed in Washington state (NH00001609). If she reapplies, she must pay a $5,000 fine and complete continuing education. While working at an assisted living facility, McCracken failed to implement an acceptable grievance procedure and interacted with the residents in an intimidating manner. Her license to practice as a registered nurse in Washington was also revoked in 2002.

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