If you are a doctor or other licensed medical professional, learning that you are the subject of a board investigation can be unnerving. Medical board investigations can result in the suspension and revocation of your license to practice and harm your reputation.
Do not waste any time when dealing with medical board investigations. You should visit with an experienced license defense attorney to go over your situation and how best to respond as soon as possible.
Defending Against Medical Board Investigations
When you meet with your medical license defense lawyer, the two of you should review the subject matter of the investigation in depth. The specific strategy you and your attorney choose to employ in responding to your case could be unique. However, some common themes will be present in nearly every case:
Cooperate, But Do Not Give Away Too Much
Your attorney will likely suggest that you cooperate with the medical board’s investigation, as failing to do so can be separate grounds for discipline. However, you should be careful about what information you share.
Giving too much information about the situation or irrelevant information that goes beyond the scope of the board’s investigation can unnecessarily expose you to potential new investigations.
Your attorney will help you understand and decide which materials to share with the board and which you should withhold.
Presenting Exculpatory Information
You and your attorney will also want to decide what exculpatory information you want to present to the board and how early you should do so. Medical board investigations can consider positive peer recommendations, extenuating circumstances that led to the complaint, or other factors when deciding an appropriate resolution to your case.
Requesting the Right Type of Hearing
When you have been investigated and are alleged to have violated one or more professional rules, you will likely want to request a hearing. You and your attorney will want to discuss formal and informal hearings and consider which type of hearing is right for your situation.
An informal hearing may suffice if the facts of the incident are not in dispute or when you, your attorney, and the board can all reach a satisfactory settlement to the complaint. However, if the board’s investigators are mistaken about the facts they rely upon to impose discipline, a formal hearing may be the best option to protect your license.
Contact a Skilled California Medical License Defense Lawyer for Assistance
When facing a medical board investigation, you need more than just any California attorney. You need a thoughtful and knowledgeable license defense attorney who can quickly analyze your situation and help you take decisive action to protect your license. That attorney can be found at S J Harris Law.
Contact us if you are facing a medical board investigation, and we will guide you on how best to respond to the allegations. We are committed to helping you preserve your good name and your career.
