The N.C. Medical Board has charged a second doctor with unprofessional conduct for his involvement in the death of Shiri Berg, a senior from Israel, last year.
She died as a result of a reaction to Lidocaine perscribed to her before receiving laser hair removal at Premier Body in Raleigh.
According to Dale Breaden, director of public affairs for the board, Dr. Samuel Wurster is able to practice and will remain licensed until the charges are proven or disproven.
Wurster’s license is listed under “active” in the board’s online database.
“You don’t take any actions before charges are proven,” Breaden said. “I don’t know where he is practicing.”
Dr. Ira Uretzky, the other physician placed under investigation, has already surrendered his license.
Breaden said this process is an “administrative procedure” and that the public should keep in mind that the physicians have the “same rights to an attorney and hearing as everyone else.”
“We can’t take anybody’s license away just on the basis of the charge,” Breaden said.
Kile Law, co-owner of Blue Water Spa, said her husband and co-owner, Dr. Michael Law, doesn’t use “topical numbing preparations” like the Lidocaine used in Berg’s situation.
“I don’t find that it’s necessary,” Law said. “All topical numbing isn’t a bad thing; it just isn’t necessary [here].”
Law said before anyone considers having laser hair removal, it is important to “find a facility where there is a physician actually at the office.”
“Find laser technology more modern and advanced,” Law said. “Select a laser that has a consistent cooling device so numbing isn’t required.”
Breaden said a “legally balanced hearing” will take place in August after a proper investigation.
“They have a legal right to be fairly heard,” Breaden said.