Dr. Stella Immanuel, the Houston pastor-physician at the center of controversy over her unsupported claims that an anti-malaria drug can cure COVID-19, tweeted this week that the Texas Medical Board has opened an investigation of her.
In the tweet, Immanuel also sought donations to fund her legal efforts. The tweet provided a link to a web page where she wrote, “many patients and those I’ve inspired will be marginalized if I were to (be) shut down.”
The board, which regulates the practice of medicine in Texas, Thursday would not confirm it is conducting an investigation of Immanuel. A spokesman noted that doctor complaints and investigations are “statutorily confidential.”
The tweet was posted less than three weeks after the board issued a statement noting it can take action against doctors who promise a cure for COVID-19. The statement added that any complaint for false, misleading or deceptive advertising would be reviewed under its standard enforcement process.