Dr. Thomas C. Weiner, an oncologist, has had his medical license revoked in Montana after multiple accusations of malpractice. The Montana Board of Medical Examiners took this decision in response to seven documented cases of improper conduct and substandard care.
Revocation of Medical License
Weiner’s license was revoked following a detailed investigation by the medical board. This action comes more than a year after a comprehensive report revealed severe concerns about his patient care practices.
Background of Malpractice Cases
- The board’s findings included serious violations linked to Weiner’s treatment methods.
- Allegations ranged from administering chemotherapy to patients without cancer to neglecting the care of very ill patients.
- It was revealed that the treatments prescribed contributed to the deaths of several patients.
One prominent case involved Scot Warwick, diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in 2009. After eleven years of treatment, an autopsy found that he likely died from complications associated with chemotherapy rather than cancer itself. This specific case was pivotal in the board’s decision to revoke Weiner’s license.
Implications of the Revocation
With the revocation of his license, Weiner is now reported to a federal database, significantly hindering his ability to practice medicine in the future. Following his termination from St. Peter’s Health in 2020, Weiner has faced a cascade of legal challenges and investigations.
Legal Challenges and Settlements
The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated a lawsuit against Weiner. The charges include:
- Prescribing unnecessary treatments
- Double billing for services
- Improper billing practices
Additionally, St. Peter’s Health reached a settlement of $10.8 million related to violations of the False Claims Act concerning Weiner’s billing practices.
Public and Professional Reactions
Weiner’s case has divided the community. Many former patients continue to support him, voicing their belief that he has been unfairly targeted. A Facebook group named “We Stand with Dr. Tom Weiner” serves as a platform for his supporters.
Conversely, Lisa Warwick, widow of Scot Warwick, expressed relief at the board’s decision but noted that the process took excessively long. She criticized the board for not acting sooner to protect patients during the investigative period.
Future Outlook
Dr. Weiner’s future in medicine appears bleak. In a recent order from the Montana medical board, he agreed not to seek medical licensure again in the state. Weiner has maintained his innocence regarding the malpractice allegations and ongoing investigations.
The Montana Department of Justice is currently conducting a separate criminal investigation into Weiner’s practices, though details remain scarce.
