Whatcom County osteopathic physician and surgeon’s license restricted on allegations that pain management practices fell beneath standard of care

For immediate release: August 10, 2023   (23-107)

Contact: DOH Communications

OLYMPIA – The Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery has restricted the license of Whatcom County osteopathic physician and surgeon Gregory Sharp (OP00001611) pending further legal action.

Sharp operates a practice in Bellingham where he practices as a pain management specialist. The CDC guidelines, Washington State Department of Health guidelines and the standards of the medical community who practice this specialty are committed to providing patients with a careful and ongoing assessment of risk, including the risk of addiction or misuse of controlled substances used for the treatment of pain. Charges state Sharp's pain management practices in the treatment of patients fell beneath the standard of care regarding management of scheduled medications and the practice of pain management.

Sharp cannot practice in Washington until the charges are resolved. He has 20 days to request a hearing to contest the charges.

The legal documents on this case can be seen online by clicking on “Health Care Provider Lookup” under the “Find it Fast” section of the Department of Health website; copies can also be requested by calling 360-236-4700. Anyone who believes a health care provider acted unprofessionally is encouraged to call this number and report their complaint.

The Department of Health and the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery protect and promote public health, safety, and welfare in Washington by regulating the competency and quality of health care providers. The agency establishes, monitors, and enforces qualifications for licensing, consistent standards of practice, continuing competency mechanisms, and discipline. Rules, policies, and procedures promote the delivery of quality health care to people in Washington.

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