OLYMPIA  - On October 31, 2018, the Washington Medical Commission (WMC) entered into an Modified Order with Dr. Donald S. Dillinger (License No. 00017867) to permanently surrender his license to practice medicine in Washington. Dr. Dillinger violated the standard of care while treating chronic pain patients and demonstrated unprofessional conduct in the prescription of opioid medications (violations of RCW 18.130.180 (4) and (7), WAC 246-919-854 through -857).

On October 10, 2016 the WMC issued a Statement of Charges against Dr. Dillinger. A hearing was held on August 23, 2017, a Final Order was created and sanctions were imposed on Dr. Dillinger. On or about August 18, 2018, Dr. Dillinger expressed an unwillingness to comply with the Final Order and in lieu of doing so offered to surrender his license. In this case, because Dr. Dillinger also agreed to retire, the WMC can accept the voluntary surrender of his license as sufficient protection of the public (WAC 246-16-200(2)(b)(iii).

Dr. Dillinger has agreed that the surrender of his license is permanent; he will never resume the practice of medicine in Washington; he will never reapply for reinstatement, reactivation or renewal of his license. The WMC takes this case and all cases very seriously.

The WMC’s Commission’s job is to protect the public as regulators. Dr. Dillinger may still face additional punishments in other arenas such as civil court.

Legal documents in this case are available online by visiting the Washington Department of Health Provider Credential Search website.

The WMC promotes patient safety and enhances the integrity of the medical profession through licensing, rule-making, discipline, and education. Learn more about the commission at WMC.wa.gov. Follow the WMC on Facebook and Twitter.

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**This notice is intended to comply with RCW 18.130.110.