An OPMC investigation is intimidating enough, but the thought that any of its findings might be leaked to the public could destroy your medical career even if you are cleared. If the OPMC has opened a complaint against you, please read on, then contact one of our attorneys skilled in OPMC/OPD misconduct defense to learn how much of your OPMC investigation is available to the public in New York.
Are the findings of your OPMC investigation available to the New York public?
By and large, no, the findings of your Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) investigation will not be made public. However, the following types of information will become part of the public record:
- Final decisions, including disciplinary actions
- The charges on which those decisions are based
- The penalties incurred
Needless to say, information on previous closed complaints, dismissed actions and ongoing investigations is confidential, as are the names and identities of complainants. Investigative files are confidential as well and are disclosed neither to complainants nor physicians.
What are the potential penalties of an OPMC investigation in New York?
The medical board has the authority to take certain actions against a physician’s license. Those actions, which are available to the public, include:
- Revocation
- Actual or partial suspension for a certain period of time or until the physician completes retraining, education or rehabilitation
- License limitation to a specified area or type of practice
- A requirement that a physician pursue a course of education or training
- License or registration annulment
- Censure and reprimand
- A fine of up to $10,000 for each finding of guilt
- Up to 500 hours of community service
Given the severity of these consequences, you should reach out to Paul E. Walker to discuss your next steps.
How can a New York medical misconduct defense attorney help you?
Many complaints received by OPMC arise from failed communication, which does not typically constitute misconduct but does indicate a problem in the doctor/patient relationship. Your qualified legal representative will help resolve misunderstandings about diagnoses, treatments, referrals and billing as well as your perceived rudeness or lack of caring toward patients. In addition to collecting, compiling and presenting mitigating or exculpatory evidence to the appropriate bodies, your seasoned attorney will also wage a vigorous defense before those same entities. Concentrating on the defense of medical malpractice cases, Paul Walker has decades of experience, which he is ready to put to work for you. Do not face the OPMC on your own. Please 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.