A neurosurgeon accused of performing medically unnecessary spine surgeries on multiple patients has lost an appeal to have restrictions on his license lifted, the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin reported May 18.
Washington state health officials restricted the license of Jason Dreyer, DO, in March and considered the surgeon's appeal April 16 after he submitted evidence in his defence.
Officials said that Dr. Dreyer exaggerated the condition of several patients to justify extensive spine surgery when he practiced at Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Walla Walla, Wash., from 2014 to 2017.
Imaging for several cases determined that certain spine surgeries took place without clear medical indications, the state's Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery found.
Officials said Dr. Dreyer's actions continue to pose a threat to the public's health and safety and that his surgeries were performed below the standard of care, without clear medical need and for financial gain, according to the report.
The board has prohibited Dr. Dreyer from performing spine surgery unless each case is vetted by two other neurosurgeons. At least one of those surgeons must practice elsewhere and have no financial ties to Dr. Dreyer's practice.
The board is conducting a full review, which will determine the final outcome on the restriction requirements.
Dr. Dreyer is listed as a surgeon at Rockwood MultiCare Neurosurgery and Spine in Spokane, Wash.