Dr. David Houlihan, accused of overprescribing opiates at Tomah VA sets up private practice

TOMAH -- A former Wisconsin VA doctor accused of overprescribing opiates has set up a private psychiatry practice as disciplinary proceedings against him drag on.

Dr. David Houlihan was fired from the Tomah VA Medical Center in November following a federal investigation. Wisconsin's Medical Examining Board is now investigating his practices and the overdose death of a patient.

Physicians are typically allowed to keep their licenses during investigations, but veterans' advocates have raised concerns about Houlihan. Some patients referred to him as "candy man" for allegedly handing out excess narcotics.

The board suspended his license in March, saying he was dangerous. An administrative law judge later reinstated it.

The clinic's website lists Houlihan as its only doctor. The clinic hung up when called by The Associated Press. Houlihan's attorney didn't return messages.