Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs announced that Essex County vascular surgeon, Marc Watson, MD, has agreed to permanently cease engaging in the clinical practice of medicine and surgery in New Jersey. This decision comes in response to allegations that Watson indiscriminately prescribed high volumes of controlled dangerous substances (“CDS”) to patients he treated for addiction.

In a statement, Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of preventing negligent prescribing practices that contribute to the addiction epidemic, stating, “We will not allow our efforts to be undermined by doctors whose negligent prescribing allows dangerous, habit-forming drugs to flow into our communities.”

The State's investigation revealed that Watson, who has been practicing addiction medicine since 2005, engaged in gross negligence and professional misconduct by prescribing high volumes of CDS without sufficient medical justification, including highly addictive substances such as benzodiazepines, stimulants, and narcotics. The State also alleged that Watson failed to conduct adequate physical examinations, patient monitoring, and record-keeping.

Cari Fais, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, criticized Watson's conduct, stating, “The alleged conduct of this doctor demonstrates a serious breach of professional standards and an alarming lack of good judgment.” Fais highlighted the importance of following laws and regulations when prescribing controlled substances, especially when treating patients for substance use disorders.

Under a final consent order filed by the Board, Watson is required to permanently cease engaging in the clinical practice of medicine and surgery in New Jersey. Following a 30-day wind-down period, during which he can transfer the care of his patients, Watson's New Jersey CDS Registration will be permanently retired, and he will be prohibited from reapplying for one in the future.

Watson will be allowed to retain his medical license for the limited purpose of conducting mandated on-site testing of construction workers through his ownership of a mobile Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) testing company. However, he is prohibited from practicing medicine in any other capacity beyond what is specified in the final consent order.

The investigation was conducted by the Enforcement Bureau within the Division of Consumer Affairs, and the State was represented by Deputy Attorney General Michelle F. Mikelberg. Patients who believe they have been treated inappropriately by a licensed health care professional are encouraged to file a complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs.