Q. What type of healthcare professionals do we help?
A. The list is long and includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, optometrists, veterinarians, physical therapists, psychologists, social workers, speech pathologists and more. Basically, we represent any professional facing accusations or investigations by the Virginia Department of Health Professions.
Q. How does the process begin?
A. Action by the Virginia Department of Health Professions typically starts when an employer, co-worker, or patient files a complaint against the license holder. By law, the agency responsible for the particular license holder (nursing, medicine, dentistry, etc.) is charged with investigating the complaint and will assign an investigator to interview the license holder, and others with knowledge of the situation, and also review the relevant written documentation.
Q. When do I need a lawyer?
A. Before providing the investigator with a statement responding to the allegations. A focused and well-considered response to the investigator’s questions can often make a difference in the outcome of the investigation.
Q. What can happen to me as a result of the investigation?
A. Your license can be suspended or revoked which may prevent you from earning a living in your chosen profession. Lesser punishments include private sanction, public sanction, and the imposition of certain requirements to retain/maintain your license such as enrollment in continuing education programs, drug or alcohol addiction treatment programs, etc.
Q. What will it cost?
A. We charge based upon the number of hours involved in your representation. For example, if your case is satisfactorily resolved after the first phase of the process (an informal hearing), the costs and attorney’s fees are much less than if your case goes all the way to a full hearing before the entire Board.