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What Happens After A Medical License is Suspended?

The suspension or revocation of a medical license is one of the worst things imaginable for doctors and surgeons. One mistake can end their career and ultimately, life as they know it.

State medical boards have the duty to protect the medical community and its patients from dangerous practices. However, this does not mean there isn’t room for error or misjudgment in an investigation.

Fortunately, there is still hope for those facing California medical board disciplinary actions. A medical board defense attorney is experienced in navigating hearings and can guide you on the best approach to your case. Hiring legal representation will alleviate personal bias and increase the chances of a successful outcome.

Medical Board Disciplinary Hearing

When a physician is facing disciplinary action, the Medical Board of California will send a letter of notice stating their decision. The Defendant will then have up to 30 days to respond requesting a formal hearing.

At a medical board disciplinary hearing the Defendant will be brought before a board of their peers to address the allegations. The hearing is typically presented before a hearing officer, who may be a member of the medical board or a judge. During the hearing, the physician has the opportunity to present evidence and testimony in their defense. The California Medical Board also has the opportunity to present its case.

The specific procedures and rules of the disciplinary hearing may vary depending on the jurisdiction. Some common elements of a disciplinary hearing process include:

• Opening statements
• Presentation of evidence
• Cross-examination
• Closing arguments

After the hearing, the board will issue a decision on the allegations. Because hearings are complex, it is important to seek legal representation.

The Effects of a Suspended Medical License

The hearing can result in a variety of California medical board disciplinary actions, one being a license suspension. A medical license suspension means that the healthcare professional is not authorized to practice medicine for a certain period of time. Some possible consequences of a medical license suspension include:

1. Loss of income: Due to their probation, a doctor may lose their main source of income. This can be especially difficult for doctors who have large student loan debts or other financial obligations.
2. Reputation damage: A suspended medical license can damage a doctor’s reputation and impact future employment.
3. Legal action: Depending on the reason for the suspension, the healthcare professional may face legal action and even criminal charges. For example, if a doctor’s license is suspended due to malpractice, they may be sued by the patients.
4. Reinstatement process: After a suspension, the licensed professional may need to go through a reinstatement process. This may involve completing additional education or training.

It’s important to note that the consequences of a medical license suspension can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances. A revoked license will have a similar effect on a healthcare professional, however, they will never be reinstated. This will significantly alter their life and may even make it difficult to seek jobs outside of the medical field.

Doctors should maintain the highest standards of professional conduct in order to avoid license suspension and other California medical board disciplinary actions.

How do I reinstate my California medical license?

Appealing a medical board decision can be a complicated process, but here are some general steps to consider:

1. Review the decision and grounds for the decision: Before appealing, it’s important to fully understand the reasons for the decision. Review the decision letter and any relevant documents, such as the medical board’s rules and regulations.
2. Determine the deadline for filing an appeal: Be sure to review the rules and regulations to determine the deadline.
3. Gather evidence and documentation: Gather medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions to support your case.
4. Consult with an attorney: Consider consulting with a medical license defense attorney who has experience in medical board appeals. They can help you navigate the appeals process, represent you at hearings, and provide legal guidance.
5. File an appeal: Follow the specific procedures outlined by the medical board for filing an appeal.

The appeals process can vary depending on the specific circumstance and the jurisdiction in which the medical board operates. It’s always best to seek the guidance of a medical board defense attorney to help you navigate the appeals process.

Medical License Defense Attorneys

If you are facing a medical board hearing or appeal, you want a legal representative you can trust. Fenton Jurkowitz Law Group has nearly three decades of experience representing physicians. Our law firm is not afraid to hold the California Medical Board accountable for fraudulent charges and professional misconduct.

We understand your fears about this process and will take a personalized approach to ensure you are satisfied with the outcome. Contact a California medical board defense attorney today to discuss the next steps. Let us fight for you!