Can a Physician Lose His Job Over an Allegation of Alcoholism?

As you know, alcoholism is an addiction, and many people are alcoholics who you may never expect to be. Unfortunately, if you are a physician and you are an alcoholic, there is a very good chance that this may affect your ability to practice medicine, and if you are accused of alcoholism in the context of it affecting your ability to treat patients, it may put your career on the line. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable New York City OPMC defense attorney to learn more about how our firm can help if you find yourself in this situation. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What happens if I am accused of alcoholism as a physician?

Regardless of whether you believe your alcohol consumption affects your ability to practice it can still put you at risk of losing your job. When a peer or patient suspects that you have an alcohol addiction, or that you performed any medical treatment while under the influence of alcohol, there is a very good chance a complaint will be filed with the Office of Professional Medical Conduct. When this happens, the OPMC will most likely investigate your practice to determine whether you have an alcohol addiction. If they determine that you do and that your addiction affects your ability to do your job, they may prohibit you from practicing medicine. Depending on your situation, you may have to face censure and reprimand, as well as a fine. You may also have to potentially attend substance abuse therapy and face increased liability insurance. If the OPMC believes you are a threat to your patients, you may also lose your medical license.

What should I do if I am a physician accused of alcoholism?

If you are a medical professional who realizes you have an addiction and want to make a change, you can go to the Committee on Physicians Health and enter a rehabilitation program. As long as you are truly trying to make a change and the OPMC sees this, there is a very good chance that your medical license will not be revoked permanently. Regardless of your circumstances, if you are facing accusations of malpractice or otherwise, you must speak with our New York City OPMC defense attorney today. Our firm is here to help.

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.