When I was referred by my doctor to a specialist I decided to check the new doctor's background. Online at healthgrades.com/physician I found that he had been sanctioned or forced to surrender his medical license in two other states, is on a five-year probation in Washington state, and graduated from a university with low ratings. A portion of the information I found read "the Colorado State Board of Medical Examiners issued an interim cessation of practice agreement regarding the physician's license to practice medicine in the state of Colorado. The action was based upon concerns that the physician may not be able to practice medicine with reasonable skill and safety to patients." In California his license was surrendered. I have declined the referral.

In writing this letter, I hope that before seeing a doctor with whom you have no history, you check his or her background and credential. When I called the new doctor's office I was told that yes, they were aware of the sanctions. My own referring doctor and Group Health did not know, however, and are now referring me to another specialist.

Linda Vliet

Blaine