Physician Licensure Laws
What are Physician Licensure Laws?
Physician licensure laws are laws that require doctors to have a certain amount of training, education and competence in medicine before practicing medicine. A typical medical license requires that a practicing physician have:
- Graduated from an accredited medical school
- Completed one year of education at an accredited graduate medical school'
- Passed a licensing exam
Every state has its own physician licensure laws. Physicians must be licensed to practice medicine in the state where the patient they are treating is located.
Why Do Physicians Have to Be Licensed?
Physician licensure laws exist in order to protect public health and safety. Licensure laws allow states to assure that physicians practicing there have a certain degree of competence. The laws also let states evaluate the quality of care its physicians provide.
What are the Consequences of Physician Licensure Laws?
Physicians that are licensed are subject to the rules and regulations of the licensing agency. Failure to comply with the ethical and professional guidelines can result in the physician having his license suspended, restricted or taken away.
Physicians that practice medicine without a license are also subject to strict penalties under state law. These penalties can include having one's license taken away, fines, and even criminal prosecution.
Do I Need a Lawyer for my Physician Licensure Problem?
If you are a physician having trouble with your state's licensing board, an experienced attorney can help you resolve the conflict. If you are a patient who feels that your physician was improperly license, a medical malpractice lawyer can help you file a complaint and sue for damages.
Consult a Lawyer - Present Your Case Now!
Last Modified: 11-11-2011 04:12 PM PST
