Lynnwood Dentist Loses License to Practice OLYMPIA- A Lynnwood dentist has been suspended from practice for violating a previous order and substandard patient care. The Dental Quality Assurance Commission and the Washington State Department of Health have issued an immediate license suspension for dentist George Whitehead (DE00005204). The charges say that Whitehead placed a patient’s safety at risk with an improper prescription for narcotics. Whitehead’s care of the patient, who received several dental implants, was substandard — creating more risk. Whitehead is also charged with receiving profits from a dental practice during a time when he did not have a license. Only a licensed dentist can have an interest in a dental practice. Whitehead has 10 days to request a prompt hearing and 20 days to respond to the statement of charges. The documents related to this case are available by clicking on the Provider Credential Search on the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov). The commission protects and promotes public health, safety and welfare in Washington by regulating the competency and quality of dentists. Rules, policies and procedures developed by the commission and secretary promote the delivery of quality health care to state residents. For the full article please visit www.doh.wa.gov.