How to Investigate a Surgeon's Record for Disciplinary Actions

When seeking medical services, it is important to ensure that the surgeon you are considering is qualified and has a clean professional record. One way to do this is by investigating any disciplinary actions that may have been taken against a surgeon. This article will guide you through the process of finding out if any disciplinary actions have been taken against a surgeon.

The Role of the State Medical Licensing Board

The initial step in investigating a surgeon's record is to contact the state medical licensing board. This board is responsible for issuing licenses to practicing surgeons in a specific state and for overseeing their professional conduct. These entities serve as the primary regulatory body for the medical profession in the United States.

Steps to Take When Contacting the State Licensing Board

Identify the correct licensing board: Each state has its own medical licensing board. You can find the contact information for your state's board by searching online or contacting your state's health department. Contact the board: Reach out to the medical licensing board and explain your reason for requesting information. You can make the inquiry in writing or over the phone, as most licensing boards offer both options. Ask about disciplinary actions: Inquire specifically about any disciplinary actions that have been taken against the surgeon in question. The board will provide you with information on any actions that are deemed public. Follow up if necessary: If the information you receive is not satisfactory, you may need to request additional details or clarify your request.

While the process of obtaining this information may be straightforward, some states may make it more challenging. In such cases, it is crucial to be persistent and communicate effectively with the licensing board.

Additional Resources for Investigating Disciplinary Actions

In addition to contacting the state medical licensing board, there are other resources available to help you investigate a surgeon's record for disciplinary actions.

Professional Associations

Many medical professions have their own national or regional associations. These associations often have resources available to members or the general public to check a surgeon's credentials and conduct. You can search for the association related to the surgeon's field and investigate the resources they offer.

Footnotes and Online Publications

Some surgical societies and professional journals may publish articles or footnotes that mention disciplinary actions against surgeons. These resources can provide additional information and context about a surgeon's professional history. However, be sure to verify the information found in these publications.

Conclusion

Investigating a surgeon's record for disciplinary actions is an important part of ensuring the quality of care you receive. By contacting your state's medical licensing board and exploring additional resources, you can gather the information needed to make an informed decision. Remember to follow up as necessary and be persistent in your efforts to obtain the information you need.