Criminal Defense Lawyers

Physician or Surgeon Board License Defense Lawyers

Physician or Surgeon Board License Defense Lawyers: Protecting Doctors’ Right to Practice Medicine

Doctors devote their lives to caring for patients and saving lives. However, even the most well-intentioned physician can face allegations of misconduct or negligence. Defending your medical license is crucial for continuing your medical career and livelihood. This is where experienced physician license defense lawyers can help.

Understanding Medical Board Investigations

State medical boards are responsible for licensing doctors, investigating complaints, and taking disciplinary action when necessary. If a complaint is filed against you, the medical board will launch a formal investigation. They have the power to subpoena medical records, interview witnesses, and collect evidence. Some common allegations that trigger investigations include:

• Medical malpractice
• Improper prescribing of controlled substances
• Sexual misconduct with patients
• Practicing medicine while impaired due to alcohol or drugs
• Fraudulent billing practices
• Failure to meet standard of care

The investigation process can be lengthy, taking anywhere from 6 months to over a year in some cases. You will be notified of the complaint and given a chance to respond. It’s essential to take any investigation seriously and retain legal counsel immediately. An experienced medical license defense attorney can guide you through the process and protect your interests.

Consequences of Disciplinary Action

If the investigation concludes there was a violation, the medical board has the authority to take disciplinary action against your license. Some potential consequences include:

• License revocation – Permanent loss of medical license
• License suspension – Temporary loss of medical license
• Probation – Allowed to continue practicing under supervision
• Reprimand – Formal admonishment placed on permanent record
• Fines or restitution
• Additional education or training
• Restriction on prescribing certain medications

Even a less severe disciplinary action can still damage your professional reputation. Patients may lose trust if they find out you were disciplined. That‘s why fighting to avoid any disciplinary outcome is so important.

How Can a Medical License Defense Lawyer Help?

Having an experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference during a medical board investigation. Here are some key ways a physician license defense attorney can help protect your interests:

• Evaluate the complaint – Your lawyer will do a comprehensive review of the allegations so you understand exactly what you’re facing. They will identify any weaknesses in the complaint or lack of evidence.
• Guide your response – You will need to submit a formal response to the medical board. Your lawyer will advise you on how to respond in a way that is truthful while also putting you in the best light.
• Represent you during the investigation – Your lawyer can interface with the medical board on your behalf, gathering information through records requests and interviews. They will look for ways to resolve the case in your favor.
• Negotiate settlements – Many cases can be resolved through settlements like fines or additional training. Your lawyer will negotiate for the most favorable outcome.
• Defend your case at hearings – If your case goes to a formal hearing, your lawyer will advocate for you before the medical board. They understand the hearing process and will fight against disciplinary action.
• Appeal any adverse decisions – If the medical board does take disciplinary action, your lawyer can help appeal the decision and restore your license.

Having experienced counsel makes a huge difference. A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that doctors facing medical board complaints were three times more likely to avoid sanctions if they had legal representation.

Choosing the Right Medical License Defense Lawyer

Not all lawyers have the right skills and track record for medical license defense. Look for these key traits in your attorney:

• Deep experience – Choose a lawyer who specializes in medical license defense and has successfully handled many doctor discipline cases. Ask about their specific experience with your type of complaint.
• Knowledge of medical board processes – They should understand the intricacies of your state medical board’s investigation and hearing procedures. Familiarity with the board leads to better advocacy.
• Trial experience – In case your case goes to a formal hearing, your lawyer should have litigation and trial experience. This allows them to effectively argue your case.
• Good relationships with the medical board – The best lawyers have working relationships with medical board officials. This can help resolve cases efficiently.
• Resources to take on your case – Choose a larger firm with the staffing resources and expertise to handle the demands of your case.
• Peer recommendations – Talk to other doctors who have gone through medical board complaints. Get their recommendations on lawyers that helped them.