Criminal Trial Begins For Eastern Shore Doctor Accused Of Unnecessary Stent Procedures

Meanwhile, Towson doctor accused of similar infractions awaits word on whether he can keep his medical license

While the Maryland Board of Physicians weighs professional charges against one cardiologist accused of placing heart stents into hundreds of patients who didn't need them, a federal jury in Baltimore is considering criminal charges against another.

The health care fraud trial of Dr. John R. McLean, who practiced at a hospital on the Eastern Shore before surrendering his medical privileges in 2007, opened Tuesday in Baltimore's U.S. District Court.

Prosecutors outlined a set of allegations against him that are startlingly similar to those against Towson cardiologist Mark Midei, who practiced at St. Joseph Medical Center and was charged administratively — not criminally — last year with violating the Medical Practice Act.

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