POSTED: Monday, November 2nd, 2009 --- 2:30 p.m.

According to a press release from the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing, a Beloit doctor has been suspended for showing up to work drunk twice within three days. Joseph Besso, M.D., of Beloit, has had his medical license suspended and his case is currently being reviewed.

The following is the release sent by the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing:

Beloit Physician Suspended

Madison, WI – Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing Secretary Celia Jackson and Medical Examining Board (MEB) Chair Gene Musser, M.D. announced today that the medical license of Joseph A. Besso, M.D. of Beloit, has been suspended while a complaint against him is investigated and disciplinary actions proceed.

At its October 21st meeting, the MEB found probable cause to believe that Besso’s alleged conduct constitutes a danger to the public health, safety or welfare which requires emergency suspension of his license to practice medicine. According to the Order of Summary Suspension approved by the MEB, Besso reported to work on August 17, 2009 under the influence of alcohol and with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit for driving. He was escorted home. The Order stated that Besso subsequently resigned his employment, including hospital and clinical privileges with a 30 day notice. As a condition of continued employment during the 30 day period, Besso was to be tested for alcohol on a daily basis. On August 19, 2009 Besso tested positive for alcohol, again in excess of the legal limit, and his employment and privileges were immediately terminated.

The summary suspension approved by the MEB is in effect for 30 days or until Besso provides proof to the Board that he has successfully completed an AODA treatment program. An Administrative Law Judge assigned to the case may continue the suspension for an additional 30 days while the disciplinary proceeding is in progress and may continue it indefinitely if Besso causes any delay in the proceedings.

Before final discipline is imposed, Besso will be entitled to an evidentiary hearing at which DRL has the burden of proving violations to a preponderance of the evidence.

About The Department of Regulation and Licensing:
The Department of Regulation and Licensing and the related professional boards, license and regulate 132 different types of credentials in more than 58 professional fields. The Department issues approximately 27,500 new credentials each year and renews 350,000 credentials each biennium. The agency also provides centralized administrative services to 64 boards, councils, and advisory committees. The Department of Regulation and Licensing protects the citizens of Wisconsin by ensuring the safe and competent practice of licensed professionals through regulation, education, experience, examination, practice standards, and compliance.