While doctors are held to a high standard, they are also human. This means they can make mistakes, just like anyone else. Unfortunately, due to their high standard, they can face consequences for mistakes they make that harm a patient. Depending on the severity of the situation, medical professionals can be investigated by the Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC). Continue reading below to learn more and retain the services of an experienced New York medical defense attorney if you receive a letter from the OPMC.
What is the OPMC?
The OPMC is a board of professionals who are responsible for supervising the practice of medical professionals in order to make sure they are conducting themselves morally and ethically. Duties of their job can include the following:
- Prosecute and discipline physicians that have been charged with misconduct
- Monitor the Committee for Physician Health
- Educate the medical community about misconduct and how to prevent it
- Investigate complains against medical professionals
- Monitor physicians who are on probation or have had their medical license restored after it was revoked
When medical professionals do not live up to a proper standard, a complaint can be filed to the OPMC, thus beginning an investigation into the misconduct. Some common complaints re as follows:
- Sexual misconducts
- Insurance fraud
- Substance abuse issues
- Billing fraud
What is an OPMC Investigation?
When a medical professional is subject to an investigation, they must answer the board’s questions regarding the accusations they are facing. In addition to this, co-workers, patients, and employees can be interviewed as well. Once the interview is concluded, the OPMC will decide whether the individual is guilty of misconduct. If they are guilty, they may face a letter of reprimand, a censure letter of reprimand, probation, or the loss of their medical license.
Contact our Firm
When a medical professional is accused of misconduct, it is essential that they 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 contactthe Walker Medical Law firm to set up a free initial consultation.
