For immediate release: January 25, 2008 (08-008)

Contacts:
Taylor Stair, Disciplinary Manager 360-236-4886
Jeff Smith, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA ¾ The license of an Oak Harbor dentist has been suspended for allegedly drinking alcohol while he worked.

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission and the state Department of Health have immediately suspended the license of Michael W. Ostrom (DE00003981). He cannot practice pending the outcome of a hearing. Ostrom does not have a practice of his own; he travels to other offices as needed.

Ostrom, filling in as the sole dentist at a Seattle office, allegedly worked on a patient after consuming alcohol. Staff members noted a strong odor of alcohol on his breath after he returned from lunch. Later, they found that the coffee cup he had been drinking from contained alcohol.

Ostrom has 10 days to request a prompt hearing and 20 days to respond to the statement of charges. The charging documents are online; click "Provider Credential Search" on the Department of Health Web site (www.doh.wa.gov). The documents are also available by calling 360-236-4700.

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission protects and promotes public health and safety in Washington by regulating the competency and quality of dentists. Rules, policies and procedures developed by the commission promote the delivery of quality health care to state residents.

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