It is not easy being a medical professional, due to years of specialized schooling, high-stress work environments and the demands of patients. Unfortunately, your career as a medical professional may now be at risk due to an allegation of medical malpractice. These allegations can come in the form of either OPMC or civil complaints. Either way, they can be costly. For more information on how an OPMC complaint differs from a civil complaint in New York, please read on, then contact one of our experienced OPMC/OPD misconduct defense attorneys.
What does OPMC do?
The Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) investigates and adjudicates complaints that patients make against medical professionals. The following groups may make complaints to the OPMC:
- The public
- Health care professionals
- Institutions
Each year, the OPMC receives thousands of complaints, which it will then investigate. If you face accusations of malpractice as a medical professional, the OPMC will likely examine your case and handle the complaint. You risk losing your medical license whenever OPMC investigates accusations of malpractice.
How is an OPMC complaint different from a civil complaint in New York?
Patients who assert that they have been wronged by medical professionals can make OPMC complaints for the following allegations:
- Inappropriate conduct
- Substance abuse
- Billing fraud
- Misconduct
- Harassment
- Sexual impropriety
Once they receive these complaints, the OPMC will then examine the circumstances surrounding the claim and determine its validity. Should they find it valid, the medical professional may face any or all of the following consequences:
- Revocation of medical license
- Suspension or limitation of medical license
- Probation
- Monitoring
- Censure
- Reprimand
- Fines
- Community service
In lieu of an OPMC complaint, a patient may file a civil complaint alleging negligence and requesting financial compensation for the cost of any damages they incurred as a result of the medical professional’s conduct. Nonetheless, these claims may still put you at risk for additional disciplinary action from the OPMC.
Whatever the nature of the complaint you face, you should reach out to our skilled firm to discuss your next steps.
How can a New York OPMC/OPD misconduct defense attorney defend against an OPMC or civil complaint?
You should know that the investigators and physicians at the OPMC have a lot of experience. You should not underestimate them. They have the ability to interview your patients, employees, past and present as well as obtain vast amounts of information. A New York OPMC/OPD misconduct defense attorney can help prepare you and develop a comprehensive plan to present your side of any issue to the OPMC or civil authorities so as to minimize or eliminate the penalties of your alleged actions. Do not go it alone. 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.
