Texas Doctor Cleared of Malpractice Claims After Using Hydroxychloroquine to Treat Coronavirus

A Houston medical doctor has been exonerated by the Texas Medical Board (TMB) of an accusation of malpractice stemming from his use of hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus patients.

In a letter to Dr. Richard Urso, the TMB stated “the standard of care was met” and that the complaint against him had been dismissed.

Though the letter does not specifically mention hydroxychloroquine, Urso indicated in a town hall forum in August that he had been reported to the TMB for his use of hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19.

“Thank you for everyone’s support. Science prevailed over science fiction. Appreciate the TMB decision,” Urso said in a social media post.

The TMB letter stated that there was no basis for the complaint against Urso.“The investigation referenced above has been dismissed because the Board determines there was insufficient evidence to prove that a violation of the Medical Practice Act occurred,” the letter reads. “Specifically, the investigation determined that Dr. Urso was appropriate in his care and treatment of BM, JM and KM.”

Urso is an ardent proponent of the use of hydroxychloroquine for treating COVID-19. He is among a number of doctors in the Lone Star State who have criticized the TMB for its alleged invidious treatment of physicians who employ the drug to fight the coronavirus.

The president of the TMB, Dr. Sherif Saafran, has denied claims that the TMB has been targeting doctors who use hydroxychloroquine.

Zaafran explicitly said in August that physicians are free to prescribe hydroxychloroquine if they believe it is appropriate. The statement came after the agency had added roadblocks to the use of the drug earlier in the year.

The TMB did not offer any comment regarding Urso’s exoneration.

“Unfortunately the Board cannot confirm or deny information regarding complaints as it is statutorily confidential,” a TMB spokesperson told The Texan.

Urso could not be reached for comment at the time of publication.

https://thetexan.news/texas-doctor-cleared-of-malpractice-claims-after-using-hydroxychloroquine-to-treat-coronavirus/