While working in the medical field can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be challenging and stressful. And at some point in your medical career, issues may arise which could put your license in jeopardy.
The Medical Board of California is the governmental agency in charge of licensing and disciplining those in the medical profession in California, including doctors and nurses. If someone files a complaint against you, this organization is in charge of launching an investigation to determine the best course of action.
If someone has filed a complaint against you and you must undergo a formal investigation, a medical license defense lawyer can represent you to reach the most favorable outcome in your case.
Most Common Medical Board Complaints that Trigger Investigations
As a medical professional, patient health and safety are in your hands. Therefore, the Medical Board of California takes complaints very seriously.
Several types of complaints to the medical board can trigger an investigation against you, but the following are some of the most common:
Failure to Provide Proper Patient Care
Patients trust physicians and medical professionals to treat them with special care and provide adequate treatment to improve their condition. However, medical professionals are humans, and errors can happen.
When a patient files a complaint for improper care, it can involve any of the following issues:
- Failure to provide a correct and timely diagnosis
- Failure to provide the proper medical treatment
- Failure to take a patient’s medical history
- Prescription medication issues, including an incorrect dosage
- Failure to request medical testing
- Surgical issues
- Failure to provide proper post-operative care
Because patient care and satisfaction are so important, the medical board often feels it is necessary to launch an investigation. Based on their findings, they can prove or disprove the patient’s complaints.
Not only can an investigation for improper medical care put your medical license at risk, but it could also affect your reputation.
Substance Abuse or Addiction
Anyone could face problems with substance abuse or addiction, but those in the medical field are at an increased risk. After all, being a doctor is not an easy task, and it is a high-pressure job.
However, the accusations made against you may not be true, or they may not accurately reflect your situation. Therefore, if you’re being investigated for substance abuse or addiction, discuss the situation with a license defense lawyer right away.
Sexual Misconduct
Unfortunately, sexual misconduct (including sexual harassment) is a common accusation, especially in the workplace. Common examples of sexual misconduct include verbal harassment, inappropriate physical contact, and requests for sexual favors in exchange for something.
These accusations could be made by coworkers or patients, and they’re quite serious. They can put your work and personal relationships at risk.
Consult with a License Defense Lawyer
If you’re under investigation by the Medical Board of California, you are not alone. The legal team at S J Harris Law is ready to protect your rights and work diligently to help reach the most beneficial outcome on your behalf.
Contact our firm today to request a complimentary consultation.
