The Office of Professional Medical Conduct is the organization responsible for making sure that medical professionals are practicing within the appropriate standard of care. If a complaint is made against a medical professional, the OPMC will conduct an investigation into the truth behind that complaint. If you get a letter from the OPMC stating that someone filed a complaint against you, it is important that you retain the services of an experienced medical defense attorney who can assist you throughout this difficult time.
The OPMC receives thousands of complaints a year in New York State and has to take the time to investigate each one of them. However, they won’t investigate any complaints if they are simply because a medical professional had rude bedside manner because that is not considered actual misconduct. For example, in 2005, the Office of Professional Medical Conduct received roughly 7,000 complaints but only 400 of those complaints resulted in any action against the accused physician.
Investigations conducted by the OPMC can take anywhere from just a few days to months or years. Of course, it all depends on the circumstances surrounding the complaint made against the medical professional. Some investigations will take longer than others simply because of the nature of the accusation.
If you have received a letter from the OPMC stating someone made a complaint against you and an investigation will be conducted, it is essential that you contact a medical defense attorney as soon as possible.
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.
