Iowa dentist gets license suspended, fined $10K for opioid scheme

An Iowa oral surgeon has been fined $10,000 and had his license temporarily suspended after allegedly diverting opioids for personal use, local news source The Gazette reports. 

Andrew Hartwig, DDS, has had his dental license since 1993 and works at Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center of Iowa City (Iowa). Based on allegations that Dr. Hartwig used opioids intended for patient sedation, the Iowa Dental Board charged him with unprofessional or unethical conduct, according to a settlement agreement signed Dec. 3.

Dr. Hartwig's dental license is suspended through Jan. 31, and his general anesthesia permit is suspended through March 31. He can administer sedation Sept. 1, pending the completion of a state program for providers who self-report impairments.

Dr. Hartwig will also be on probation for five years, during which time he cannot administer opioids for sedation and must have a practice monitor.

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