The Florida Department of Health announced Tuesday the Emergency Suspension Orders of 14 medical practitioners and one pharmacy. One of the suspensions was handed down to local certified nursing assistant Melinda Lawanna Bryant.
The orders immediately suspended the practitioners' and pharmacy's licenses to practice in Florida.
Bryant pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of a mixture or substance containing cocaine in 2004.
She was sentenced to five years in prison.
Surgeon General Dr. H. Frank Farmer issued the suspension last week.
According to the suspension order, the health department was not aware of her guilty plea until July 11.
Emergency suspension orders are not the last step the health department takes. They are imposed for severe violations relating to the "commission of crimes, standard of care, drug use, or for student loan defaults," according to a press release.
Each individual is entitled to a hearing before final action is taken.
