The DOJ announced that Dr. Michael Fletcher, former member of the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure (KBML), was convicted of three counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance. Fletcher worked as physician at Interventional Pain Specialists located in Crestview Hills, Kentucky. According to evidence presented at trial, Fletcher improperly prescribed opioids to his patients, some who tested positive for heroin. According to the government, Fletcher prescribed opioids to patients who tested positive for street drugs so he could bill for lucrative yet medically unnecessary procedures on the same patients.
Doctors prescribing controlled substances must adhere to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Both the CSA and DEA set forth safeguards to protect patients and the community from misusing controlled substances. Urine samples, amongst other things, are used to detect the misuse of controlled substances. Evidence presented at trial showed that seven patients died of drug-related complications after Fletcher had disregarded his duties and improperly prescribed opioids. Ironically, Fletcher likely oversaw disciplinary proceedings for doctors accused of improperly prescribing controlled substances, through his role at the KBML, while he was engaged in the same activities.
Fletcher now faces up to 20 years on each count of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance. Fletcher is scheduled to be sentenced on December 17, 2024.
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