This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
I was dismayed to read the front-page story featuring Dr. Lynn Webster that plainly implied he was remiss in his treatment of patients with chronic pain ("Docs to blame for pain pill deaths?" Tribune, March 1).
As a retired physician who practiced emergency medicine in Salt Lake City, I almost daily dealt with narcotics-seeking patients and I had contact with Webster on a professional basis.
I have no information about the Drug Enforcement Administration's investigation of his practice or of Carol Ann Bosley's tragic death, but as a fellow physician, I hold Webster in the highest regard. He is an extraordinarily ethical and conscientious physician who always held his patients' interest foremost.
In the often difficult field of pain management, which is admittedly rife with bad apples, Webster is the epitome of a well-trained and dedicated practitioner. Other physicians should seek to emulate his exemplary standard.
The Tribune should be castigated for painting Webster in such a negative light. He deserves your sincere apology.
Arnie Finkleman, M.D.
Park City