SEATTLE (AP) — A state panel has suspended the medical license of a prominent surgeon who was recently a focus of a Seattle Times investigation about Swedish Health's neuroscience unit.

The Seattle Times reported Tuesday the Medical Quality Assurance Commission wrote in documents dated May 5 that the immediate suspension of Dr. Johnny Delashaw was warranted because "of an immediate threat to the public health and safety."

Officials say Delashaw has 20 days to respond to the charges and request a hearing and he cannot practice in the state until the charges are resolved.

In documents commission officials said Delashaw had intimidated subordinates by yelling, swearing and making threatening movements toward staff members.

Commissioners say some became afraid to ask Delashaw questions needed to properly care for patients.

Delashaw did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

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