Delaware psychiatrist's license suspended over opioid prescribing practices

March 21, 2018

The Delaware Secretary of State suspended the medical license and controlled substance privileges of psychiatrist Dr. Gregory Villabona, who has a history of disciplinary actions.

This decision was based on two parallel complaints filed by the state's Department of Justice, alleging that Villabona prescribed opioids to patients with little or no required documentation, failed to maintain effective controls against diversion of controlled substances, and exchanged guns and weapons with patients.

Delaware Code Title 24 enables a temporary suspension pending a hearing to be issued upon the written order of the Secretary of State, if the activity of the licensee presents a clear and immediate danger to public health, safety or welfare.

The suspension Villabona will remain in effect for a period of 60 days, during which time disciplinary hearings will be held or the final disposition The Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline has the authority to impose disciplinary sanctions up to and including revocation of a practitioner’s license or certification.

SOURCE: "Psychiatrist’s license suspended over opioid prescribing practices," Delaware Business Now, 19 Mar 2018, https://delawarebusinessnow.com/2018/03/psychiatrists-license-suspended-over-opioid-prescribing-practices/.