The Department of Health has charged three health care providers with unprofessional conduct for using bogus degrees from diploma mills in their practice.
Michael Strub, a licensed social worker, allegedly bought a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D.) diploma and transcript in March 2004. He got it from Hamilton University, an online diploma mill. Charges say Strub misrepresented his education and training to clients and insurance companies.
diploma fraud
David Larsen, a registered counselor and chemical dependency professional, bought a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in October 2002. He purchased it from St. Regis University, another online diploma mill. Larsen didn’t complete an academic program or course work through St. Regis. He allegedly misrepresented his education and training on a resume he submitted for a counselor position in August 2004. Larsen was known as “Dr. Larsen” at that agency by staff and clients.
Taylor Danard, registered counselor, purchased a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D.) degree from St. Regis University in January 2003. From 2003 to July 2008, Danard allegedly misrepresented her education and training by referring to herself as a Ph.D. in her practice. Danard didn’t complete an academic program or course work from St. Regis. Charging papers say she provided false information to a Department of Health investigator.
The department investigated four other health care providers who got credentials using diploma mills. These four other providers didn’t use the degrees during their application processes or in their practices, so those cases have been closed without disciplinary action.
Source: khq
