FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December. 11, 2014

Contact: Communications Office
(850) 245-4111

TALLAHASSEE—The Florida Department of Health (DOH) served 13 cease-and-desist notices during November to individuals practicing health care without a license, which is a felony-level criminal offense in many instances. Treatment by an unlicensed provider is dangerous and could result in further injury, disease or even death.

• Tisha Albury, Davenport, unlicensed practice of Mental Health Counseling
• Kimberly Lorraine Carter, Lakeland, unlicensed practice as a Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
• Tucker Lee Chapmant, Lakeland, unlicensed practice of Dietetics/Nutritionist
• Theresa M Cipolloni, Spring Hill, unlicensed practice as a Massage Therapist
• Tracey Alendria Davis, Tallahassee, unlicensed practice as a Clinical Social Worker Intern
• Wendy M. Gallego, Miami, unlicensed practice of Radiologic Technology
• Tamra Gasbarro, Fort Walton Beach, unlicensed practice as an Optician
• Herbal Spa, Ocoee, unlicensed practice as a Massage Establishment
• Jordan T Hill, Lakeland, unlicensed practice of Dietetics/Nutritionist
• Maxine Lang, Bradenton, unlicensed practice of Mental Health Counseling
• Amy Torres, Naples, unlicensed practice as a Psychologist
• Francis J Tragesser, Lakeland, unlicensed practice of Dietetics/Nutritionist
• Dennis Woods, Tampa, unlicensed practice of Mental Health Counseling

DOH’s Division of Medical Quality Assurance (MQA) Unlicensed Activity program under authority of Florida Statute 456.065 protects Florida residents and visitors from the potentially serious consequences of receiving health care services from an unlicensed person. The Unlicensed Activity (ULA) program investigates all unlicensed health care activity complaints and allegations and works in conjunction with law enforcement and the state attorney’s offices to prosecute individuals practicing without a license.

DOH has several resources to combat unlicensed activity:

• Consumers are encouraged to use DOH’s website, www.FlHealthSource.gov, where they can conveniently view the license information of their health care practitioner.
• Complaints may be filed anonymously by completing and mailing the complaint form on the DOH website, or by calling 1-877-HALT-ULA. Complaints may also be filed via email at HALTULA@flhealth.gov.

The Department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. During 2014, the Department is recognizing 125 years of public health in Florida with educational opportunities and events. Please visit www.FLHealth125.gov for more information.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.floridahealth.gov.