cedar grove
Author: Richard L. Smith
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs announced today that Cedar Grove vascular surgeon Mark Watson, M.D., has agreed to permanently discontinue his medical and surgical practice in the state.This decision was made in response to allegations that Dr. Watson indiscriminately prescribed large quantities of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) to patients, particularly those receiving treatment for addiction.
The charges against Dr. Watson, which stem from an extensive investigation by the department’s Enforcement Directorate, include gross negligence, professional misconduct, and lack of medical justification for prescribing highly addictive drugs such as benzodiazepines, stimulants, and, in some cases, narcotics. include.
Additionally, Watson’s practice was criticized for inadequate patient examination, monitoring, and record-keeping.
A detailed review of Watson’s patient records and clinic revealed that long-term prescriptions for CDS were made without properly evaluating the patient’s underlying medical conditions or considering referral to other specialists, such as a psychiatrist. It turned out that it was.
At a hearing before the board’s Preliminary Evaluation Committee in August 2023, Watson said he has no formal training in addiction medicine and has not directly examined patients or conducted urine drug tests for more than a year. He admitted that he often failed to obtain medical records in advance. Before prescribing CDS.
Kari Fais, acting director of the Department of Consumer Affairs, emphasized the importance of complying with regulations when prescribing controlled substances, especially to people with substance use disorders.
The actions taken against Dr. Watson are aimed at preventing him from putting patients and the public at further risk through his medical practice.
According to the final consent order filed on February 22, 2024, Dr. Watson must close his practice within 30 days and must arrange to take over patient care during that time.
His New Jersey CDS registration will also be permanently terminated and he will be prohibited from reapplying in the future.
Watson is only allowed to maintain his medical license to perform on-site inspections of construction workers through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s mobile inspection company, and there are strict restrictions on practicing medicine in any other capacity. is provided.
This decisive action underscores New Jersey’s commitment to combating the opioid epidemic and ensuring health care professionals uphold the highest standards of care and ethical practices.
