Los Angeles Medical License Defense Attorney
Medical professionals in California must hold a valid license from the Medical Board of California (MBC) to practice medicine. The licensing process guarantees that physicians comply with California’s rigorous educational requirements and ethical standards. However, when individuals are faced with complaints, they are at risk of disciplinary action. A Los Angeles medical license defense lawyer can protect your professional reputation and fight for your rights. If you’re looking for help, our expert Los Angeles professional license defense lawyer can guide you through the process and defend your career.
Why Choose Century Law Group LLP?
Century Law Group LLP has extensive experience in defending medical professionals who face disciplinary actions in California. Our deep knowledge of Medical Board of California (MBC) procedures and California administrative law helps us create customized defense strategies for every client. We can protect your medical license and career through personalized, aggressive representation while defending your professional reputation.
Medical Licensing in Los Angeles
The MBC oversees medical licensing and regulatory procedures for physicians and surgeons, ensuring consumer protection by enforcing the Medical Practice Act. Medical professionals in Los Angeles must prioritize keeping their medical licenses active and free from blemishes.
The Medical Board of California (MBC) examines all physician complaints through active investigations, which may result in serious disciplinary actions that affect medical careers. The MBC received 9,521 complaints during the fiscal year 2022-2023. It also opened 1,099 investigations on physicians and surgeons, which resulted in several disciplinary outcomes, such as license revocations and suspensions.
When to Consult a Medical License Defense Lawyer
Responding in a timely fashion can be critical for the outcome of your case. You should consult a medical license defense lawyer in the following situations:
- You received a complaint. Consult a lawyer immediately after receiving a complaint or notice of investigation from the MBC. Getting legal assistance at an early stage allows an attorney to develop proper responses and reduce possible negative outcomes.
- You have been arrested on criminal charges. Investigations by the Medical Board of California (MBC) can be triggered by criminal charges, including mistakes that lead to legal malpractice claims or DUIs.. The Medical Board of California may discipline physicians for crimes that substantially connect to their medical qualifications or professional responsibilities.
- You face professional allegations. Serious accusations, like gross negligence and unprofessional behavior, may result in severe disciplinary measures. The MBC reported a total of 221 gross negligence cases during the fiscal period of 2022-2023. Defense attorneys can create strong legal defenses to respond to these types of accusations.
Common Allegations Against Physicians
Doctors in Los Angeles may face numerous legal claims that put their medical licenses and professional standing at risk. The Medical Board of California holds the authority to conduct investigations and impose disciplinary measures against physicians who fail to maintain proper professional standards.
Sources of allegations can include patient complaints, insurance companies, hospitals, and fellow medical practitioners. Understanding the most common accusations can help attorneys design strong defense strategies.
- Medical malpractice. Medical malpractice is one of the most common claims against physicians. This usually results from subpar care. According to the Medical Board of California, medical malpractice is a result of misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication errors, and improper treatment.
- Substance abuse. The MBC treats substance abuse allegations with grave concern when they affect a physician’s capacity to deliver medical care. One DUI arrest or proof of drug addiction will trigger an investigation. The board can direct doctors to participate in the Physician Health and Wellness Program as an alternative to suspension, although doing so may affect their professional record.
- Fraud. A medical professional can be reprimanded if they are accused of overbilling or insurance fraud. This can include charging separately for items that should be billed together, billing for services never received, and charging more than the service actually costs.
- Sexual misconduct. This is one of the most severe accusations a medical professional can face. This can include sexual comments, sexual advances, inappropriate relationships with patients, and inappropriate physical contact.
- Prescription misconduct. California enforces rigorous prescription rules for controlled substances through the Controlled Substances Act and its Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP). During 2022, the MBC carried out disciplinary actions against more than 150 medical practitioners due to prescription-related infractions. Practitioners who engage in prescription misconduct face criminal charges and the permanent loss of their medical licenses.
FAQs About Medical License Defense Law in Los Angeles,CA
What Is Unprofessional Conduct in the Medical Board of California?
The Medical Board of California (MBC) classifies all behaviors that breach their professional standards as unprofessional conduct. Professional misconduct encompasses actions such as:
- Negligence
- Substance abuse
- Sexual misconduct
- False advertising
- Improper record-keeping
- Failure to meet standard care requirements
Physicians who violate professional standards face investigations by the MBC. These may lead to fines, suspension, or license revocation.
Can a Doctor Refuse to Treat a Patient in California?
Yes, a doctor can refuse to treat a patient in California. Doctors have the right to decline patient treatment under circumstances like needing care beyond their scope, facing disruptive or threatening patients, or experiencing conflicts of interest. However, doctors in California must provide emergency treatment to patients until they reach a stable condition, according to state law and the EMTALA (Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act).
Is It Difficult to Get a California Medical License?
Yes, it can be difficult to get a California medical license. California imposes strict requirements, which make obtaining a medical license difficult. To qualify for medical licensure, applicants need to:
- Graduate from medical school.
- Pass the USMLE or its equivalent.
- Finish one year of postgraduate training.
- Successfully undergo a background check.
The Medical Board of California requires applicants to demonstrate clinical proficiency and maintain ethical standards before they can receive a medical license.
Can I Still Practice Medicine While Under Investigation?
Yes, you can still practice medicine while under investigation unless the Medical Board issues a suspension order. During an investigation, most physicians remain able to practice, but they may face limitations, like restricted controlled substance prescription rights. A legal professional can assist you in contesting unjust limitations while preserving your practice rights.
Contact Century Law Group LLP
If you have faced professional accusations that place your medical license at risk, Century Law Group LLP can represent you in the legal process. Contact us today to set up a constitution.