I often counsel physicians who are in the midst of a medical malpractice case. Most commonly, their attorney in the malpractice lawsuit asks them to consult with a licensing attorney because the facts arising in the malpractice case may give rise to discipline in the form of a suspension or revocation of their medical license. […]
There are many ways that a psychologist can lose his or her license, including false claims, allegations of boundary violations, breaches of confidentiality, and many more. When psychologists come to my office because a state licensing board is investigating them, I often find myself providing them a laundry list of conduct that is viewed negatively […]
Nurses sometimes come to my office for a consultation regarding a licensing issue, and one of the first questions they ask is “can I go to jail for this?” The difference between jail-worthy offenses—criminal matters—and cases with “only” licensing consequences—civil matters—is not always clear, and depending on the conduct in question, the nurse’s case could […]
Like so many fields, technology has made it possible for veterinarians to serve clients remotely. Using computers, telephones, and Skype-type video links, many veterinarians in Missouri and Kansas can help patients well even when they are not physically present with the animal in need. But while these technological advances allow for quick consultations over vast […]
Anesthesiologists are particularly finding themselves scrutinized in the frenzy to punish anyone connected to the opioid crisis. There are also many other reasons for an allegation to arise, including patient boundary issues, alcohol and drug abuse, and misappropriation of patient money. When anesthesiologists come to my office, they often ask what they should do if […]
The New York Attorney General indicted the CEO and the Chief Compliance Officer of a major opioid manufacturer this week. As you likely know, the United States is currently in the throes of an opioid crisis, and law enforcement’s frequent strategy has been to arrest those involved in distributing pain killers to the public. That […]
Physicians are placed in complicated positions every day. They must touch patients’ bodies and interact with patients in full or partial undress. They must touch patients’ genitals in the course of exams. They deal with distraught patients. On top of all of this, they have to maintain a positive bedside manner without appearing affectionate or […]
No profession is free of addiction issues. That said, with high stress, significant opportunity for injuries, and easy access to prescription medications, nursing is a profession ripe for drug and alcohol abuse. Nurses who seek treatment for their addiction should not lose their nursing licenses or suffer a suspension while they undergo treatment. But what […]
I have represented many dentists in Missouri and Kansas accused of misconduct. Allegations against dentists frequently stem from their dental assistants’ conduct, not their own. Specifically, dentists are alleged to have allowed dental assistants and hygienists to conduct procedures that are reserved for those holding a dental license. This is a challenging allegation for a […]
The vast majority of physicians I know enjoy long and successful careers and stand out as pillars of their communities. But what about those that don’t? Some physicians derail their careers with poor judgment, addiction, and deceit. I have written the following blog post to help members of the medical community how to avoid these […]