Dr. Wei-Hsung Lin prescribed ivermectin to five patients. However, he has been fined for prescribing ivermectin against COVID-19 in Washington state. As per the order signed by the Washington Medical Commission on May 2, Dr. Lin must pay a $5,000 fine and take continuing education classes. Ivermectin is approved by the FDA for treating various conditions, but prescribing it for unapproved usage, especially for COVID-19, has been cautioned against by health authorities. Dr. Lin admitted to prescribing ivermectin without detailing the off-label use, risks, and alternative treatments to his patients.
One of the cases involved a 71-year-old female who tested positive for COVID-19 and was prescribed ivermectin by Dr. Lin. The woman returned to the hospital after taking the medication without improvement. Another case involved a 69-year-old male who did not take the prescribed ivermectin after learning about the potential negative effects online. Dr. Lin’s treatment was considered below the standard of care as he did not discuss alternative treatments or COVID-19 vaccines with his patients.
The order prohibits Dr. Lin from prescribing off-label ivermectin in Washington state and mandates him to establish a doctor-patient relationship before providing care. He must also review current COVID-19 guidelines, take medical education classes, and write papers on his learnings. The conditions set by the commission were deemed onerous by Dr. Jane Orient, executive director of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons.
Dr. Lin’s employer, Kadlec Regional Medical Center clinic in Richland, reiterated that they do not recommend or allow the use of ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment. Dr. Lin, represented by attorney Pete Serrano, settled the case to avoid potential suspension of his license. He can petition to terminate the order in three years.
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