Subject Numbers Regarding Health Provider Authorizations

Authorization No. 231033-2B

July 25, 2013

Pursuant to Workers' Compensation Law Section 13-d(4), the Chair of the New York State Workers' Compensation Board has exercised his authority to temporarily suspend Dr. Douglas Cline's authorizations to treat injured workers and to perform independent medical examinations in the New York State workers' compensation system effective July 25, 2013. Dr. Cline's last known business address is 104 Main Street, Queensbury, New York 12804.

The Chair's designee's investigation revealed that on numerous occasions, Dr. Cline or a member of his office staff have requested and accepted from workers' compensation claimants receiving care and treatment from him for work-related injuries and illnesses cash and/or check donations or fees, in violation of Workers' Compensation Law 13-f(1).

Investigation has also revealed objections to his billing practices and medication management in connection with care and treatment rendered by him and/or a member of his staff to workers' compensation claimants. Furthermore, during a scheduled deposition, he refused to answer legal questions, in violation of his medical provider authorization agreement and Workers' Compensation Law 13-d(2)(f). Therefore, the Chair believes that Dr. Cline may be guilty of misconduct.

Dr. Cline is prohibited from rendering treatment and care to injured workers and from performing independent medical examinations while his authorizations are temporarily suspended. Reports submitted by Dr. Cline for services rendered prior to July 25, 2013, are valid, but are invalid for any services rendered on or after that date. Requests to cross-examine Dr. Cline for services rendered prior to July 25, 2013, should not be denied due to the suspension of his authorizations.

This suspension remains in effect until further notice. Any questions regarding the authorized lists should be referred to the Medical Director's Office at 1 (800) 781-2362.