Subject Numbers Regarding Health Provider Authorizations

Authorization No. 097753-8W

June 30, 2014

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. Richard Balsam’s authorization to treat injured workers within the New York State workers’ compensation system effective June 16, 2014. Dr. Balsam's last known business address is 46 Holmes Dale, Albany, New York.

The Chair’s designee’s investigation revealed that the Department of Health, Bureau of Professional Medical Conduct (BPMC) has issued BPMC Order # 14-127, wherein, Dr. Balsam entered into an Interim Order precluding him from practicing medicine in New York State or in any setting or jurisdiction where that practice is predicated on his New York State medical license. This Order was issued and became effective after his arrest on May 12, 2014, wherein he was charged with one count of criminal sale of a prescription for a controlled substance, a Class “C” felony.

Therefore, the Chair believes that Dr. Balsam may be guilty of misconduct, and that such misconduct would detrimentally affect the quality of care provided to injured workers.

Dr. Balsam is prohibited from rendering treatment and care to injured workers while his authorization is temporarily suspended. Reports submitted by Dr. Balsam for services rendered prior to June 16, 2014, are valid, but are invalid for any services rendered on or after that date. Requests to cross-examine Dr. Balsam for services rendered prior to June 16, 2014 should not be denied due to the suspension of his authorization.

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.