Doctor Shopping

August 4. 2009

Doctor shopping, much like judge shopping is dangerous and sometimes illegal. Michael Jackson, like a number of other celebrities in Hollywood, went doctor shopping, seeking physicians that would issue the prescriptions they want and in excessive quantities.

This practice, sadly, killed the pop star. Prescription meds abuse in Hollywood runs rampant and hopefully, this case will be a turning point, at least for the government, to better regulate the industry in this trouble spot.

Michael Jackson's doctors, Arnold Klein (left) and Conrad Murray (righ)

Side Bar: in a curious note, Michael Jackson's dermatologist, Arnold Klein, the rumored dad of Jackson's children via sperm donation, made an appearance in the estate case yesterday, petitioning for the welfare of Jackson's children.

EXCLUSIVE: Lawyer Reveals Why Dr Arnold Klien Wants Say In Custody Decision

Aug 03, 2009 @ 10:16PM - The appearance of an attorney representing Dr. Arnold Klein at the guardianship hearing for Michael Jackson's three kids was a surprise even to the court, which ruled the dermatologist had no legal standing to interject himself into the decision.

In a statement to RadarOnline.com, the attorney, Mark Vincent Kaplan, explained why Klein feels compelled to be involved.

"At 9:15 AM today, August 3, 2009, we appeared on behalf of Dr. Arnold Klein before Judge Mitchell Beckloff in Los Angeles County Superior Court, Probate Department 5, to ask the Court to allow Dr. Klein to have an opportunity to present evidence to the Court for its consideration in fashioning an appropriate guardianship order with specific protection and supervision in areas relating to Paris Katherine and Prince Michael's upbringing that were of particular concern to Michael.

Dr. Klein is not objecting to Katherine Jackson being the guardian nominee, but was acting on promises he made to Michael with respect to assuring the long term health and stability of the children and their ability to enjoy as normal of a life out of the spotlight as could be reasonably possible.

"Dr. Klein has always had a special relationship with Paris Katherine and Prince Michael, loves and cares deeply for these children and is looking out for their best interest. Dr. Klein has been involved with the children in sharing holidays and other special events and wishes to have the ability to continue his involvement as a very close friend of their father and offers his guidance and protection forever."...

Klein's statement only deals with the older two - Prince Michael and Paris - which is particularly interesting given the many rumors that have him as their biological father...

http://www.radaronline.com