Rashmi Patel is being charged with a misdemeanor after his patient, Judith Gan, became unresponsive after her oxygen levels dropped so significantly during the sedation prior to the tooth pulling.
While Patel is refusing to admit that he did any wrongdoing, the state dental regulators claim that Patel neglected the patient’s needs and he is being charged with negligent homicide. The commission overseeing this case stated that Patel “ignored” signs that pointed to Gan’s state. It was also reported that Patel ignored the warnings from his dental assistants.
Patel’s attorney, Paul Krag claims, “Dr. Patel disputes the charges and urges that the charges be dropped.”
Gan’s previous health conditions, which included a heart attack, two strokes, and her usage of medication, could have aided in her death. It’s been noted that Patel should not have operated on her so intensely during one visit.
This situation and along with other incidents are shining a light on Dr. Patel and his qualifications for being a doctor. The State Dental Commission is investigating Dr. Patel and has suspended his license in the time being.
While his license has not been fully revoked yet, Krag stated, “In the Dental Commission proceeding, multiple expert witnesses testified that Dr. Patel followed the standard of care. The state’s seeking of criminal charges is contrary to this evidence and inconsistent with the decision of the Commission not to revoke his license.”
Photo By: AP
