State investigates credentials of Washington dentist accused of fraudulently prescribing opioids

The state is investigating a Spokane, Wash.-based dentist's credentials after he allegedly prescribed opioids to his sister 21 times and then took them for himself, according to The Spokesman-Review. 

Nicholas Harker, DDS, has been a licensed dentist since 2013 and is actively practicing at My Dentist in Spokane. Following the recent drug charges, the Washington Department of Health has launched an investigation into the dentist's credentials. If violations are found, such as substance abuse or self-prescribing, a panel could take disciplinary action, including suspending or revoking his license.

After previous claims Dr. Harker performed inadequate dental work at Spokane-based Grande Smiles, a corresponding DOH investigation revealed some of his patients later had to undergo corrective care to address pain. Dr. Harker denied the allegations and a panel closed the case without disciplinary action, stating that the happenings were unlikely to reoccur and there was "minimal risk of harm" to the public.

Dr. Harker is scheduled to appear in court for the fraudulent prescription charges in February.

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