Raleigh doctor charged with prescription abuse, lying
A Raleigh cardiologist faces discipline from the North Carolina Medical Board for issuing hundreds of prescriptions for controlled substances without proper documentation and for lying to the board about his ability to practice.
Posted — UpdatedAccording to charges outlined by the board Friday, Dr. Alain Batawi has multiple sclerosis and has not actively practiced medicine since 1999. He continued to renew his medical license annually, however, and lied on the application about the his physical limitations, the board said.
"Dr. Batawi has been asked whether he had any medical condition that could limit or impair his ability to practice medicine.
He also continued to issue prescriptions for powerful, regulated drugs and, in at least one case, "diverted the Vyvanse for his personal use," the document says. Vyvanse is commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Batawi faces a hearing in February at which he could see his medical license suspended or revoked.
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