There are many reasons why someone might have their professional license threatened, and accusations of abusing patients is one of them. One career where there are frequent allegations of abuse is the field of gynecology. Obstetricians and gynecologists have to approach patients about sensitive sexual health matters and perform intimate examinations. This can sometimes lead to allegations that not all doctors deserve.
Of course, with any kind of reproductive health exam, there is touching, and tools may be used to examine patients internally. An accusation of foul play and abuse isn’t necessarily true, although all must be investigated.
A retired gynecologist here in California is facing accusations of abusing patients, and his medical license is being threatened. Interestingly, the doctor did not plan to return to practice, and he agreed when asked to suspend his license. By agreeing to the suspension, he was not admitting guilt, but since he’s retired, the suspension has no impact on his daily life.
He is temporarily prohibited from practicing medicine, but that has no immediate impact on the doctor. His attorney stated that all efforts are simply aimed at defending against civil cases and a criminal investigation that has not yet been completed. He’d previously resigned after being accused of harassing patients, many of whom were allegedly international students. He was accused of inappropriate conduct, which included examinations that went beyond current medical standards.
Cases like this are complicated because the licensing board has to consider how the claims arose. It’s easy for people to make claims, but once a medical provider loses their license, that’s the end of their career. If you’re in a position like this, it’s important to defend yourself from the start of any investigation.
