Medical professionals are very trusted individuals within their field. Not only are they trusted by patients, but their peers and superiors as well. However, these professionals are humans, just like everyone else. And like everyone else, they are subject to making mistakes. Sometimes, doctors and physicians can be accused of medical malpractice. This is a form of negligence by a healthcare professional if they do not meet the standard of care that is expected of them. When this happens, a complaint can be filed against the individual.
What is the OPMC?
The Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) oversees medical professionals to ensure they are practicing medicine ethically. When a professional is accused of medical malpractice, the OPMC steps in to conduct an investigation into the professional to make sure they are doing their job correctly. These investigations serve to determine if a doctor or physician should maintain their status as a practicing professional.
OPMC Complaints vs. Civil Complaints
If a medical professional partakes in malpractice, a complaint can be filed against them. Complaints can be filed against any healthcare professional. This can include a doctor, nurse, physician assistant, etc. These complaints may regard situations such as billing fraud, substance abuse, inappropriate conduct, and more. When this happens, they may face serious consequences, including the possible loss of their license to practice medicine. In some cases, it could even mean the end of their career.
When an individual wishes to file a complaint, they can often do so to the OPMC. The majority of complaints received by the OPMC against medical professionals come from the patients of the professional. They also sometimes come from the professional’s family members and friends as well. When this is done, the OPMC can investigate the claim and the professional in question. The professional may then face a series of disciplinary actions once a conclusion is reached.
Alternatively, some patients may wish to make a different complaint. Instead of going to the OPMC about a claim for negligence, an individual may pursue a civil complaint against the medical professional. This would follow up with a civil lawsuit. A civil lawsuit would involve a patient holding the professional responsible for the negligent activities that caused their injuries or illness as a result. If the patient is successful, they could receive compensation for the harm they experienced. When this happens, the medical professional may face disciplinary action by the OPMC and the lawsuit.
Contact our Firm
If you or someone you know is a victim of medical malpractice and wishes to consult an experienced attorney, contact Walker Medical Law today.
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.
