Can You Continue Practicing While Your Medical License Is Under Review?

In Texas, the Texas Medical Board (TMB) oversees the licensing and regulation of physicians to ensure adherence to professional standards. Annually, the TMB receives and reviews approximately 9,000 complaints from various sources, including patients, family members, and healthcare professionals. When a physician's medical license is under review due to a complaint or investigation, the ability to continue practicing depends on the nature and severity of the allegations. 

In certain cases, the TMB may impose temporary suspensions if the physician is deemed to pose a threat to public welfare. For instance, in October 2024, the TMB temporarily suspended the license of a Houston urologist after he exhibited signs of impairment and tested positive for cocaine. Not all investigations result in immediate suspension, though. Some physicians may continue to practice while the review is ongoing, often under specific restrictions or monitoring conditions. Given the complexities of such situations, consulting a Texas medical license defense lawyer is crucial.

Understanding License Review

A medical license review occurs when a state regulatory board or the authorities investigate a practitioner's qualifications, conduct, or competence. Such reviews can be initiated for several reasons, such as complaints, legal issues, or even as part of the organization's routine process audits. Practitioners must appreciate the review process because it can affect their employability and professional practice.

Reasons for License Review

Various situations might result in a medical license being reviewed. These proceedings are often initiated by complaints from patients, colleagues, or other parties. A professional can also be under review for allegations of misconduct, malpractice claims, or breaches of professional standards. License reviews also occur if the law or the guidelines for practice change.

Effects on Practice

Generally, practitioners can no longer work when they are under review for a medical license. The limitations range from mild to severe, depending on the type and nature of the review. Patients of such physicians may still be able to see them with stipulations, or it may be a monitored practice. A temporary loss of practice privileges may be warranted if more severe allegations arise. By noting possible outcomes, professionals can prepare themselves for eventualities and plan accordingly.

How to Communicate with Regulatory Boards

It is critical to be proactive while working with regulatory boards as a license gets reviewed. Honest and transparent communication can make the process easier and help resolve the issue faster. The requested information must be provided quickly, and professionals must fully cooperate during the inquiry. When things are tough, getting an idea of the review procedures, the kind of communication you will receive, and the expected timelines can somewhat alleviate anxiety and guesswork.

Seeking Legal Counsel

It is often necessary to have legal assistance to guide you through a license review. You will have the option to speak with a healthcare law attorney at this time to get an idea of what to do next and how to handle a lawsuit that may be pending. With the guidance of legal professionals, practitioners can make sense of their rights, responsibilities, and any available defenses. This support ensures that the voices of practitioners are heard and represented throughout the review process.

Being Professional and Staying Calm

Undergoing a license review can be trying and cumbersome. So, from your point of view, it is very important to remain professional and calm. Practicing ethics and keeping patients' ethics and morals in mind shows you are serious about the job. Staying calm enables you to maintain your well-being and work reputation.

Skill Acquisition and Lifelong Learning

Engaging in continuing professional education and continuing professional development during a license review may be helpful to practitioners. Additional training or certification that you have earned or are pursuing is a great way to increase your effectiveness and skill and demonstrate your interest in starting or continuing professional growth. Doing this is also a good way to show the reviewer that you are trying to keep up with the advances in medicine, which can also play a positive role in the outcome of the review.

Researching Other Avenues

As the review process is undertaken, practitioners can look for prospects in other health industries. Finding practice experience through research, teaching, or consultancy work will also help them stay in touch with the field. By venturing into these paths, practitioners can keep adding to the field as they wait for the outcome.

Networking and Peer Support

Having a network of fellow professionals to lean on can be extraordinarily helpful during a license audit. Connecting with colleagues who have been in the same position can provide great insights and direction. Networking allows us to share experiences, ask questions, and stay connected in uncertain times.

Conclusion

Although appearing before a review of a medical license is intimidating and fraught with peril, it need not be so if healthcare practitioners prepare themselves well. The review raises some serious questions, but open lines of communication with one or multiple regulatory boards and/or legal counsel are essential next steps as professionals look to move forward. By continuing to focus on professionalism, ongoing educational pursuits, and exploring other options in healthcare, you can effectively navigate the review process and start afresh.