For immediate release: April 29, 2009 (09-072)

Contacts:
Beverly Teeter, Medical Quality Assurance Commission 360-236-2758
Gordon MacCracken, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA ¾ The license of Richland neurologist Clarence Washington has been suspended by the Medical Quality Assurance Commission.

The action, called a summary suspension, means Washington cannot practice medicine pending the outcome of a hearing.

Allegations say Washington had a sexual relationship with a female patient from 2003 to 2007.

Washington has 20 days to request a show cause hearing to contest the summary suspension, and 20 days to respond to the statement of charges.

Legal documents in this case are available by calling 360-236-4700 or online by clicking the link to "Provider Credential Search" on the agency home page (www.doh.wa.gov).

The Medical Quality Assurance Commission protects and promotes public health, safety, and welfare in Washington by regulating doctors’ competency and quality. The commission develops rules, policies, and procedures to promote delivery of high-quality health care to state residents.

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