There are so many possible scenarios in which nurses and physicians may be subject to discipline by the state medical boards and licensing departments. What you decide to do in one state can impact what happens in another state if you hold multiple licenses. While some legal problems, such as convictions for fraud or injury to a patient, might seal your professional fate, not all allegations or findings of fault are met with the suspension or revocation of your license by the state. A crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude might be treated differently than the allegation of failure to follow a state law correctly. In the event the wrongdoing you fear will lead to loss of license, is something you can get help for, such as in the case of substance abuse or addiction, treatment and rehabilitation may be helpful in showing the state that you are not a threat to the public. The best idea is to work with a professional licensing attorney who can advise you and help weigh your options.
What is the benefit of voluntarily surrendering your medical or nursing license?
The short answer, is when you elect to voluntarily surrender your license, you avoid going through the process of the investigating board scrutinizing you or your conduct at hearings and making findings of fact and conclusions that may be published on websites in the public domain. In Illinois, for example, the IDFPR publishes notes of their decisions and discipline on the website, searchable by anyone.
In the event your hold licenses in multiple states, the voluntary surrender in one state may be favorable, compared to findings of fault, when other states may investigate whether to discipline you or affect your license in their state.
A surrender may be a permanent solution to a temporary problem, and should be taken seriously.
In most states, when you voluntarily surrender your nursing or medical license, you also swear to never apply for the reinstatement or make an original application for a new license. Your career options can be severely limited by having a surrendered license.
The terms of discipline, if any, can include a suspension of license and privileges for a minimum period of time and until further order of the medical board or licensing department. Depending on the circumstances of discipline, it may be possible to fully reinstate the license, privileges and career.
A professional licensing attorney who works with healthcare professionals, can advise as to the disciplinary process and expected outcomes.
Michael V. Favia & Associates, P.C. represents Illinois-licensed professionals in actions involving the IDFPR. A former Chief of Prosecution with the Department, Michael V. Favia is well-known for his work on both sides of administrative licensing law.
Chicago health law and litigation attorney Michael V. Favia and his associates in several locations and disciplines, advise and represent licensed physicians in all types of litigation and administrative matters involving licensing and regulatory agencies.
Michael V. Favia and Associates, P.C. represents individual physicians and health care organizations in the Chicago area with a variety of legal matters. With offices conveniently located in the Chicago Loop, Northwest side and suburban meeting locations, you can schedule a discrete meeting with an attorney at your convenience and discretion. For more about Michael V. Favia & Associates, please call (773) 631-4850, visit www.favialawfirm.com and feel free to “Like” the firm on Facebook and “Follow” the firm on Twitter. You can also review endorsements and recommendations for Michael V. Favia on his Avvo.com profile and on LinkedIn.
