For immediate release: February 13, 2023 (23-018)
Contact: DOH Communications
Public inquiries: Health Systems Customer Service 360-236-4700
OLYMPIA -- The Washington State Department of Health has revoked or suspended the licenses, certifications, or registrations of the following health care providers in our state. The department has also immediately suspended the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.
The department’s Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions and advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 80 health care professions (e.g., dentists, nurses, counselors). Information about disciplinary action taken against medical doctors and physician assistants can be found on the Washington Medical Commission (WMC) website. Questions about WMC disciplinary actions can be sent to media@wmc.wa.gov.
Information about health care providers is on the agency’s website. Click on “Look up a health care provider license” in the “How Do I?” section of the Department of Health home page (doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.
Clallam County
In December 2022 the secretary of health revoked the home care aide license of Joshua Lee McFarland (HM60840191). McFarland entered a stipulated order of continuance for dismissal in Clallam County District court. The order included charges of assault and malicious mischief involving a vulnerable adult in his care.
Cowlitz County
In December 2022 the secretary of health revoked the home care aide license of Maria T. Elliss (HM60869271). Elliss claimed hours as a caregiver helping a vulnerable adult that she did not work. In June, the Department of Social and Health Services’ Adult Protective Services determined she financially exploited a vulnerable adult.
Pierce County
In January 2023 the secretary of health suspended for at least three years the massage therapist, x-ray technician, and medical assistant phlebotomist licenses of Kevin Lee VandenBosch (PC60585596, MA60255380, XT60415753). A health law judge found that VandenBosch massaged a patient’s genitals.
Out of State
North Carolina: In January 2023 the Nursing Commission suspended the registered nurse license of Kristy Ann Linerud (RN00124887). Linerud must participate in a substance use monitoring program and undergo a psychological and/or psychiatric evaluation. In May 2021, Linerud was convicted of driving under the influence in Spokane County District Court and failed to report the conviction to the Nursing Commission, as was required.
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