All physicians must meet strict standards in their practice. Mistakes made by a physician due to negligence can lead to serious consequences. This may prompt an accusation of medical misconduct. When a doctor is accused of medical misconduct, an investigation will be launched by the Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC). To learn more about the role of the OPMC in this process, continue reading.
If you are facing an OPMC investigation, reach out to our knowledgeable New York City medical malpractice attorney. Our legal team will walk you through the steps of the legal process ahead.
What is the role of the OPMC?
The OPMC supervises medical professionals and has the job of ensuring that medical professionals conduct themselves both ethically and morally. When a complaint is filed against a medical professional, the OPMC will investigate in search of evidence of misconduct.
The committee of the OPMC consists of two physicians and one non-physician. The OPMC committee investigates the following complaints:
- Billing fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Sexual misconducts
- Substance abuse issues
The OPMC handles the following tasks:
- Educate the medical community about misconduct
- Discipline and prosecute physicians that have been charged with misconduct
- Investigate complaints against medical professionals
- Monitor physicians who are on probation
- Monitor physicals who have had their medical license restored after it was revoked
- Monitor the Committee for Physician Health
What happens during an OPMC investigation?
During an OPMC investigation, the OPMC will interview employees, patients, and co-workers of the physician who is being investigated regarding accusations of misconduct. The OPMC will question the physician in order to help decide if the physician is guilty of misconduct. There are a few possibilities that may occur if the physician is found guilty. The physician may receive a letter of reprimand, receive a censure letter of reprimand face probation, or lose their medical license.
It is important that medical professionals who are facing OPMC investigations seek the guidance of a skilled medical malpractice attorney who has experience handling OPMC investigations. Having an attorney from Walker Medical Law in your corner will increase your chances of beating an OPMC investigation. With their assistance, they will walk you through each step of the legal process ahead. It is important to understand that you do not need to go through this investigation on your own. To learn more about our services and how we can assist you, give our firm a call.
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.
