Medical professionals are generally trusted individuals within their field. They go through extensive training to be able to do their job. However, throughout their career, they are subject to make mistakes. Depending on the severity of the mistake, it has the potential to affect their career. It a medical professional violates their moral code, a complaint can be made against them. When this happens, the Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) steps in the handle the matter.
What is the OPMC?
The Office of Professional Medical Conduct exists to oversee the work of medical professionals and ensure that they are practicing medicine ethically and meeting the correct standards. They deal with matters or morality. If the professional participates in misconduct, there may be an allegation made against them to the OPMC. When this happens, the OPMC will conduct an investigation into the medical professional to see if they are guilty of what they are accused of. The OPMC handles the following matters:
- Billing fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Substance abuse issues
- Sexual misconduct
- Medical license revocation and restoration
The OPMC committee that is made up of two physicians and one non-physician. The committee deals with the following situations:
- Investigating complaints against professionals
- Prosecute and discipline professionals that are charged with misconduct
- Educate the medical community about what misconduct is and how they can avoid it
- Monitor the Committee for Physician Health
- Monitor professionals who are on probation or had their medical license restored after it was revoked
Investigations
During an OPMC investigation, it is crucial for a medical professional to enlist an experienced medical defense attorney. This ensures their rights and interests are properly defended. When being investigated, the professional will be required to answer the questions of the board. These questions will be in regard to the misconduct that they are accused of. During this process, the OPMC may also interview employees, coworkers, and patients.
Once the interview process is over, the OPMC will gauge the information presented to them and make a decision. The conclusion that is reached has the power to impact the individual’s status as a practicing medical professional. If they are found guilty of the misconduct they were accused of, the OPMC can impose certain penalties. This can include a letter of reprimand, a censure letter of reprimand, or probation. If the misconduct is severe, the professional may have their medical license revoked.
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.