FAIRBANKS, Alaska – The Alaska Supreme Court on Friday unanimously upheld the state Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ decision to permanently revoke Aaron Shoemaker’s license, marking a firm stand against misconduct and reinforcing the board’s regulatory authority Alaska Supreme Court Decision (2025).
Justice Dario Borghesan, writing for the court, stated that the board had “a reasonable basis to impose the most severe sanction of complete license revocation” after finding substantial evidence of attempted sexual contact with a patient, violation of COVID-19 mask mandates, and committing crimes that demonstrated Shoemaker’s unfitness for medical practice Administrative Hearing Decision.
Court in 1968 by Governor William Egan. Source: https://public.courts.alaska.gov/web/forms/docs/pub-29.pdf
Shoemaker, licensed in 2017 and founder of Advanced Chiropractic in Fairbanks, had his license suspended in September 2020 and permanently revoked a year and a half later following an administrative hearing. The court’s ruling overruled a lower court, remanding the case for implementation of the board’s decision. Borghesan also reprimanded the lower court for over-relying on Shoemaker’s personal opinions on health mandates instead of evidence-based findings from the board.
Recognizing Signs of Medical Malpractice or Misconduct
Red flags that may indicate malpractice or misconduct by healthcare providers include:
- Inappropriate or unwanted physical contact with patients Medical Malpractice Signs
- Ignoring mask mandates, hygiene, or patient safety protocols Reporting Requirements, Alaska State Medical Board
- Unprofessional behavior, arrogance, or breaches of confidentiality
- Failure to explain medical procedures, lack of informed consent, or not answering patient questions Hannon Legal Group: 5 Signs
- Unexplained injuries, complications, or persistent worsening of a condition after treatment
How to Report Unethical or Illegal Behavior in Alaska
- Complaints can be submitted to the Alaska State Medical Board online, via email at medicalboard@alaska.gov, or by mail.
- Reports should cover unprofessional conduct, criminal acts, negligence, substance abuse, or impairment.
- If criminal behavior is suspected, report immediately to local law enforcement.
Reader Tips for Protecting Against Medical Predators
- Verify provider credentials and disciplinary records with the Alaska State Medical Board before seeking treatment.
- Trust your instincts. Leave appointments if behavior feels inappropriate.
- Request a chaperone for sensitive procedures.
- Review medical board investigations to stay informed on disciplinary actions.
Impact of the Supreme Court’s Decision on Future Regulation
The decision strengthens state licensing boards’ authority to revoke medical licenses for serious ethical and legal violations, emphasizing judicial respect for agency findings and public safety safeguards. It sets a precedent ensuring misconduct carries meaningful consequences, protecting patients statewide.
