HONOLULU — A Big Island oral and cosmetic surgeon with 27 formal complaints — including a man’s death and a woman in a coma — is no longer allowed to practice in the state.
Dr. John Stover voluntarily revoked his license and agreed not to be involved in any medical or dental procedures in Hawaii ever again, Hawaii News Now reported.
The Hawaii Medical Board voted to accept the settlement.
Meanwhile, former patient Kristen Tavares remains in a coma after a wisdom-teeth extraction. Her father, Joe Tavares, said he’s glad Stover won’t work in Hawaii again. Another complaint against Stover is the death of Curtis Wagasky, who had one tooth removed.
Even though Stover closed his three offices on the Big Island last month, patients can still file legal actions against him.
State Department of Consumer Affairs spokesman Brent Suyama said it will be difficult for Stover to obtain a license anywhere else. The license revocation will go into a national registry.
“I would hope some people may take comfort in the fact that he is unable to practice any longer,” Suyama said. “If something happens to your family members or yourself, I think it’s difficult to feel any vindication in the regards. However, this does end this licensee’s practice.”