CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – The Ohio State Medical Board has released details in their investigation of Rufus Frank Lowman, a former physician assistant whose medical license has been revoked.
Summary of Evidence:
Rufus Lowman, a now former physician assistant since 2012, ran the Rose Medical Clinic through his majority-owned company, RTTS Services Corporation. The clinic, which offered services in mental health and substance abuse treatment, also provided family medicine care. Lowman claimed to administer buprenorphine and Vivitrol for addiction treatment and conducted urine screenings. However, as a physician assistant, he required supervision from a licensed physician.
In 2020, Lowman entered into a remote supervision agreement with Dr. Russell Lee-Wood, which included minimal supervisory responsibilities. Dr. Lee-Wood reportedly never visited the clinic or met Lowman, and his knowledge of Lowman’s prescribing practices was limited.
Improper Prescribing:
The Medical Board said Lowman was prescribing Schedule II controlled substances, such as powerful pain medications, to eleven patients beyond his authority. These prescriptions were allegedly issued for extended durations and under circumstances not permitted for physician assistants. Lowman asserted that Dr. Lee-Wood reviewed patient charts, though he admitted these consultations were not documented. Dr. Lee-Wood’s familiarity with Lowman’s prescribing practices was reportedly minimal.
Examples of Misconduct:
The Board’s investigation highlights several instances of misconduct:
- Lowman prescribed oxycodone and hydrocodone for pain management without documented justification.
- One patient received a substantial amount of opioids over two months despite lacking a terminal condition.
- Lowman defended his prescribing practices as part of mental health treatment, suggesting pain management could prevent the exacerbation of mental health issues. However, many prescriptions did not reference mental health concerns.
Lowman’s Response:
Lowman did not dispute the issuance of the prescriptions but argued they were authorized under regulations for mental health practices. He claimed, according to the board, that pain management was necessary to prevent worsening mental health while patients awaited referrals to pain specialists. Lowman also asserted that he believed all his prescriptions were medically appropriate. Nevertheless, under cross-examination, he reportedly conceded that he would cease prescribing Schedule II drugs if permitted to continue practicing.
Lowman can appeal the boards decision, but as of this reporting, Lowman is barred from ever practicing medicine in Ohio. He must also pay a large fine. The criminal investigation into the alleged sexual assault of a child over a period of multiple years is ongoing.
Their full report and findings can be viewed below: