Being under investigation by the New York State Department of Health’s Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) or Office of Professional Discipline (OPD) can be a painful and alienating experience. Like people all over the world and in every possible occupation, you may be drawn to social media. However, you place yourself, your medical career and your future at risk every time you log on. If you are the subject of an ongoing investigation, please read on, then contact an experienced OMPC/OPD misconduct defense attorney to learn what you should know about avoiding social media while you are under investigation by the OPMC or OPD in New York.
Why should you not use social media during a New York OPMC investigation?
People from all walks of life are drawn to one social media account or another, be it Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tik Tok or some less popular platform. Even though these apps are all fabulous means of communicating with people with similar interests anywhere on the planet, our firm would be remiss if we did not inform you that once the OPMC or OPD opens an investigation into your alleged misconduct, the investigators will monitor your social media accounts to see if you post anything that may contradict your statements and assertions.
How might using social media hurt you during a New York OPMC investigation?
For physicians and other medical professionals, social media pose many potential risks, such as:
- The distribution of poor quality or inaccurate information: Whether you post it in all seriousness or in jest, you could face severe penalties for posting misinformation.
- Damage to your professional image: Doctors are people, too. However, photos and videos of you engaging in less-than-professional behavior, even if it is during your off-work hours, might alter the perception of your performance at work. For example, if you are accused of alcoholism and posted several pictures from a drunken escapade in your free time, that may reflect poorly during a professional review.
- Violation of personal-professional boundaries: You may not mean anything untoward, but fraternizing with patients, especially since you hold a position of power, is a clear ethical violation. You can care for their well-being, but you are their doctor, not their friend.
- Breaches of patient privacy: Never post or distribute images or videos of patients unless they have given you express written permission. Even so, we would strongly advise against it, because you may later be accused of exploitation or coercion.
Even if you do not regularly use social media, you face an uphill battle if you are being investigated. That is why you should not hesitate to give us a call today.
Contact our experienced New York City firm
When a medical professional is accused of misconduct, they must retain strong legal representation. If you require a medical law attorney for your legal matters, call Paul E. Walker, an experienced New York City OPMC & OPD Lawyer. Please contact the Walker Medical Law firm to set up a free initial consultation.