When you receive a notice of investigation from the Alaska State Medical Board, all you can think about is your license. Your first instinct might be to explain your story, but it could do more harm than good. Facing a complaint alone tends to be risky, as one misstep could derail the trajectory of your career.
However, you are not without options. Here are two reasons why you should consider seeking legal guidance.
Facing high-stakes consequences
Although every valid complaint goes through a formal proceeding, this does not automatically guarantee your license’s security. If the Board finds that you have a violation, they may choose one or more of the following actions:
- Revoke your license permanently.
- Suspend your license for a specific length of time.
- Tarnish your public practitioner record with a censure or reprimand.
- Put you on probation.
- Limit your practice area.
- Impose significant civil fines.
However, if the Board finds that you pose a clear and immediate danger to the public, they can immediately suspend your license before a full hearing takes place. In such cases, you must act quickly to challenge the suspension.
Navigating reporting requirements
You have 30 days to respond to a request from an investigator for information, unless a court order mandates a shorter timeframe. Failing to cooperate with an investigation can constitute unprofessional conduct, which could lead to sanctions even if the original complaint was meritless.
If you face this by yourself, you might provide incorrect information that could jeopardize your career. Drafting a response without a strategy can cause you to miss critical deadlines.
Taking action with proper guidance
You invested decades into your education and practice. Choosing a do-it-yourself defense is a gamble you would not want to take.
To protect your license and reputation, consulting an experienced attorney can be a valuable resource. They can help you draft a sound response and prepare for interviews with investigators. Should you face disciplinary action, a lawyer can assist in appealing the decision.