NOVEMBER 19, 1999 - The Michigan Department of Consumer & Industry Services (CIS) has summarily suspended the dentistry license of Robert P. Spiess due to substance abuse. The CIS Bureau of Health Services orders a summary suspension when it believes the public’s health, safety and welfare warrant emergency action.

Spiess was convicted of Drove Impaired 1st in 1997 and added Count/Unlawful Blood Alcohol Level in 1998. Spiess failed to report both convictions to CIS as required by the Public Health Code. After the two convictions, Spiess was referred to the Health Professional Recovery Program (HPRP), a non-disciplinary monitoring program that supports recovery from substance abuse, chemical addiction and mental illness. Enacted legislatively five years ago, the HPRP encourages health professionals to address their problems before their impairment harms a patient or damages their careers.

Although Spiess agreed to the terms of the program, he was unsuccessful at following treatment recommendations. As a result, the HPRP forwarded his file to CIS, which summarily suspended his dentistry license. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Spiess’ suspended license.

Additional information about the HPRP is available by calling 1-800-453-3784.

Click here for more information about disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards.

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IMPORTANT NOTE:  Licensee status may change.  Click here to check current status.