Texas Urologist Accused of Performing Surgeries Under the Influence

In a shocking revelation, Nathan Starke, a 39-year-old urologist previously employed at Houston Methodist Hospital, is facing serious allegations after being accused of using cocaine during surgery and performing medical procedures while impaired.

Starke, who had worked at the prestigious hospital, was suspended on September 6, 2024, after concerns arose about his behavior during multiple surgeries. The Texas Medical Board launched an investigation, revealing that Starke appeared “impaired” during several operations in August and September of 2024. The board’s investigation culminated in a drug test that returned positive for cocaine in October.

“A doctor who shows up to surgery impaired cannot be allowed to continue practicing medicine,” said one anonymous source within the medical community. “This isn’t just a matter of professionalism—it’s a matter of patient safety.”

But the allegations against Starke go beyond his professional conduct. Legal records reveal a disturbing pattern of behavior. In March 2023, Starke was charged with assaulting his ex-girlfriend. According to court documents, he allegedly pushed her forcefully, causing her to fall and sustain injuries, including a bruised tailbone and a chipped tooth.

Adding to his criminal history, Starke was arrested twice for driving under the influence, once in 2007 and again in 2017, raising further concerns about his fitness to practice medicine.

The Texas Medical Board’s investigation highlights several specific incidents. Among them was a prostate biopsy conducted in August 2024, during which Starke was reportedly impaired. Witnesses claim that Starke’s erratic behavior during the procedure raised red flags for the medical staff.

However, the most alarming event came in September when Starke was allegedly absent for the majority of a surgery. Despite being listed as the attending physician, he only appeared for the final three minutes of the procedure, sparking outrage among colleagues and raising questions about his ability to manage patient care.

Houston Methodist Hospital has confirmed that Starke is no longer employed at the facility, but the question of his medical license remains unresolved. Despite the grave accusations, Starke’s medical license is currently only temporarily suspended.

The Texas Medical Board has stated that allowing Starke to return to surgery could present an ongoing threat to public welfare. However, the door remains open for his reinstatement should he complete a substance abuse rehabilitation program and undergo a thorough review of his fitness to practice medicine.

“A suspension like this doesn’t just protect patients; it sends a message to the entire medical community about the seriousness of maintaining professional and ethical standards,” said Dr. Linda Hughes, a prominent medical ethics expert. “If Starke is to regain his license, it will depend on his ability to prove that he’s no longer a danger to the public.”

Starke’s case is a stark reminder of the fragile balance between patient trust and professional responsibility. As the Texas Medical Board continues its investigation, questions linger about the adequacy of checks in place to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.

“When you put your trust in a doctor, you expect them to show up for your health—not for their own indulgence,” said one concerned patient who spoke anonymously. “It’s terrifying to think about the people who may have been affected by his actions.”

The investigation into Starke is ongoing, and the public continues to await further developments.