March 19, 2024

Local podiatrist closes doors after losing license

A Newton podiatrist had his license suspended amid allegations that he was receiving pain medication from his patients.

Dr. Timothy Smith of the Smith Foot Clinic, 218 First Ave. W., temporarily closed his doors after the Iowa Board of Podiatry suspended his license on Aug. 21.

The board issued a report that found Smith was allegedly diverting narcotics from patients by not charging co-pays in exchange for the patient’s pain medication. On Aug. 11, the Board received a report that Smith was treated at the Marshalltown Medical & Surgical Center Emergency Room, under the effects of Oxycodone, of which he does not have a prescription.

According to the report, a board investigator interviewed Smith on Aug. 12, when he initially denied any wrongdoing, but as the interview continued, he admitted to the illegal activity. The board concluded that “any continued practice as a podiatrist constitutes an immediate danger to the public health, safety, and welfare.”

Although there is no indication at the office that the clinic is closed, an answering machine message states it is temporarily closed and should reopen within one to two weeks.

There is a hearing scheduled on the emergency adjudicative order for Sept. 15 in Des Moines. Smith also has an office in Marshalltown that has been closed.

Contact Staff Writer Jamee A. Pierson at (641) 792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com.