An orthopedic surgeon who was accused of hitting a patient agreed to a five-year probationary period in lieu of a complaint, according to the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure.
In August 2023, a witness said William Martin, MD, struggled with moving an instrument tube from a patient during surgery, according to an Aug. 5 order from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure. According to the complaint, Dr. Martin became visibly upset and hit the patient on the right side of the face.
Additional witnesses described the incident and Dr. Martin's behavior similarly.
The hospital where Dr. Martin operated, Owensboro (Ky.) Health Regional Hospital, received a report and leaders recommended terminating the surgeon's appointment and privilege. But Dr. Martin resigned, and no formal discipline took place, the order said.
Dr. Martin told the licensure board he "would never intentionally hit a patient" and that he "may have moved a drape" during the incident.
He agreed to a probationary period and will undergo an assessment at a behavioral health program.