Just as you are not allowed to drive without a license, doctors are not allowed to practice without a license either. Every doctor must meet certain expectations and standards to receive a medical license. They will also need to continue to meet these criteria in order to retain them. The state medical board has a duty to protect public health, and in accordance with that duty, must suspend, revoke, or impose another discipline on the license of a doctor who is not continuing to meet the required expectations and standards.
Medical Board
Each state has a medical board with the authority to grant or refuse medical licenses. In Illinois, the board is within the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). When a complaint is reported to the IDFPR against a licensed physician, the board will decide if action needs to be taken against the physician after reviewing the case. If a physician is facing possible discipline, you should consult with a knowledgeable health care law attorney in Chicago.
Reasons for Revocation
The Illinois administrative code lists the conduct that is grounds for disciplinary action. These include dishonorable, unethical, or unprofessional conduct, immoral conduct, and gross negligence. However, the reasons for suspension or revocation must be specific, as courts have ruled that general reasons are not enough unless they are further supported by specific facts. The medical disciplinary board has leeway to rule on a case-by-case basis.
Defending Against Charges
Physicians often claim that they were denied due process in their defense against charges. Nevertheless, courts often side with the disciplinary board in cases of negligence or incompetence if the defending doctor is given sufficient notice and the opportunity to defend himself.
Don’t take unnecessary chances when it comes to your professional license. If you are facing possible suspension or revocation of your medical license, contact Zimmerman Law offices today and consult with our health care law attorney in Chicago.
