A 64-year-old dentist in Missouri surrendered his license earlier this month after pleading guilty to Medicaid fraud in March, according to a Springfield News-Leader report.
Thomas Alms, DMD, served as a dentist in Missouri until recently when he gave up his license. Dr. Alms pleaded guilty to Medicaid fraud in March and then was indicted on arson charges around a week later when police say he and his wife allegedly set fire to his dental practice. Dr. Alms had hoped to collect insurance money as a result, according to charging documents.
The arson case is still ongoing, and Dr. Alms faces up to seven years in prison as a result; he faces 10 years in prison for the fraud charges. Dr. Alms surrendered his license before the Missouri Dental Board could issue discipline. The board disciplined him and his assistance in 2012 for not wearing protective gloves during examinations, according to the report.