For immediate release: March 3, 2008 08-024

Contacts:
Kirby Putscher, Dental Commission 360-236-4868
Jeff Smith, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA ¾ A Shoreline dentist found to have over-sedated a patient has had his license suspended for seven years by state health officials and the Washington State Dental Commission.

Christopher Alan Wodja (DE00009263) was immediately suspended in November following an investigation by the state Department of Health and the dental commission. Following a January hearing, the commission found that he over-sedated a female patient during an after-hours appointment with no staff present. And he provided the patient with a see-through gown, leaving her exposed from the waist down.

The commission found that Wodja violated state regulations by failing to assess the severity of his patient’s condition; over-sedating her; and not properly monitoring her vital signs while she was under sedation. He also was found to be inadequately prepared for a patient emergency. The commission ruled he had abused his patient due to the overmedication and vulnerable position it created for the woman.

The charging documents and decision are available online; click "Provider Credential Search" on the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov) or call 360-236-4700.

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission protects and promotes public health, safety and welfare 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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