For immediate release: October 31, 2006 (06-175)

Contacts:
Erin Obenland, Dental Commission 360-236-4886
Deanna Mill, Communications Office 360-236-4022

OLYMPIA ¾ The Washington State Department of Health has immediately suspended the license of Gig Harbor dentist Joel O. Diven (DE00003155) for causing unnecessary pain and injury to a patient during an oral procedure. Diven cannot practice as a dentist in Washington, pending the outcome of a hearing.

According to the statement of charges, a portion of the patient’s jawbone was extracted while Diven was pulling a tooth. This left a hole in which the patient’s sinus was exposed. Diven disregarded the pain and injury he was causing the patient and continued with the procedure when he should have stopped or referred the patient to a specialist. Diven abandoned the patient who was in need of lifesaving, emergency measures after the procedure.

Diven has 10 days to request a prompt hearing and 20 days to respond to the statement of charges. The documents related to this case are available by calling 360-236-4700 or online by clicking the link to "Provider Credential Search" on the agency home page (www.doh.wa.gov).

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission protects and promotes public health, safety and welfare in Washington by regulating the competency and quality of dentists. Rules, policies and procedures developed by the commission promote the delivery of quality health care to state residents.

###

DOH Home | Access Washington | Privacy Notice | Disclaimer/Copyright Information

Contact Information for the Department of Health Last Update : 12/18/2006 11:08 AM Send inquires about DOH and its programs to the Health Consumer Assistance Office Comments or questions regarding this web site? Send mail to the Webmaster .