Still No License For New London Doctor Who Doesn't Have Computer

CONCORD, NH — Dr. Anna Konopka, the 84-year-old doctor who gave up her license to practice partly because she isn't comfortable using computers, was unable to get it back this month.

Konopka forfeited her license last month but later asked for permission to continue her practice. Merrimack Superior Court Judge John Kissinger ruled on Nov. 15 that she failed to show she was forced to give up her license as she alleged, New Hampshire Public Radio reported on Monday.

The state challenged record keeping, prescribing practices and medical decision making. It said her limited computer skills prevent her from using the state's mandatory electronic drug monitoring program, which requires prescribers of opioids to register in an effort reduce overdoses.

Konopka asked the judge to reconsider his decision on Wednesday. He hasn't responded yet, so she still cannot see the 20 to 25 patients per week as she once did.

"I'm not upset about anything. The legal system is a game. You move. They move. It's full of tricks and different movements," she said.

"I am fighting. Therefore as long as I am fighting, I have some hope," she added.

Konopka doesn't have a computer in her office and doesn't know how to use one. Two file cabinets in a tiny waiting room inside a 160-year-old clapboard house hold most of her patient records. The only sign of technology in the waiting room is a landline telephone on her desk.

According to the state, the allegations against Konopka started with a complaint about her treatment of a 7-year-old patient with asthma. She's been accused of leaving dosing levels of one medication up to the parents and failing to treat the patient with daily inhaled steroids. Konopka, who agreed to a board reprimand in May, said she never harmed the patient and the boy's mother disregarded her instructions.

Four more complaints have since been filed against Konopka. The board in September voted to move forward with a disciplinary hearing on those complaints. But before the hearing was held, Konopka agreed in to give up her license — something she said she was forced to do.

Konopka has built a loyal following in New London, population 4,400, and surrounding towns because she brings a personal touch that is attractive to patients weary of battling big hospitals and inattentive doctors. She often attracts patients who have run out of options, many with complicated conditions, such as chronic pain. She also draws patients who have no insurance and little means to pay. She takes anyone willing to pay her $50 in cash — making it difficult for her to afford a nurse, secretary or a lawyer to handle her case, she said.

Thirty of Konopka's patients have written Kissinger hoping to convince him to reconsider his ruling.

Photo credit: Geoff Forester/The Concord Monitor via AP, Pool