When licensing boards hand down sanctions like probation, they address faults with the licensee's practice and ensure standards of public care are maintained. Probation is often given with a set of mandates to be fulfilled to remain compliant with the board's orders. And if a licensee fails to complete any obligations, it can be fatal to their career. If you risk losing your professional license, call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or visit us online to schedule a consultation.  

Patient Dies Following Surgical Procedure  

In April 2016, Dr. Sarwa Aldoori performed liposuction and a tummy tuck on a patient who died the following day. The local coroner concluded that the patient, a 43-year-old woman, died from a fat embolism "due to abdominal surgical procedure and liposuction, with adult respiratory distress contributing."  

The accusation against the Bakersfield based doctor states, "Only four sets of vital signs were taken during three hours and 45 minutes of monitoring post-surgery, and fluid input and output was not closely assessed." The doctor repeatedly recommended that a nurse accompany them home, but the patient's family allegedly refused.  

Doctor Violates Probation and May Lose License  

The Medical Board of California (MBC) brought allegations of "insufficient training" against Dr. Aldoori in 2021. They asserted that performing the surgical procedures without the appropriate training was an "extreme departure" from the state's standard of care. Moreover, she failed to document the patient's informed consent and the discussions regarding her recommendation to have a nurse accompany the patient home after the procedure. 

Dr. Aldoori was handed down a seven-year license probation, including mandatory education courses relating to ethics and record-keeping. However, reports from the MBC now claim Dr. Aldoori failed to complete a clinical competence assessment program, which was also ordered as part of her probation, thus violating it. MBC Executive Director Reji Varghese has filed a petition to terminate Dr. Aldoori's probation and implement the license revocation that was previously stayed. 

Compliance with Probationary Terms 

When medical boards hand down terms of probation for license holders, they will often include stipulations that must be met to regain full credentials. They may also have timeframes of completion depending on what the board recommends.  

Probationary terms are aimed at helping doctors rehabilitate their professional practice, and compliance allows them to demonstrate their willingness to address and rectify any deficiencies. Compliance also ensures patient safety, protecting them from the severe consequences that can originate with substandard medical practices. Since probation is part of the board's disciplinary action, breaching terms usually results in further sanctions, including license suspension or revocation. 

How Can the Lento Law Firm Help? 

The Lento Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team can be a valuable resource for many reasons. Our attorneys will ensure you fully comprehend the expectations and requirements specified in probation orders, including working to create a plan to fulfill educational or training requirements. We will also act as an intermediary between you and the licensing board to address concerns or prevent miscommunications.  

It's essential to seek professional help before the board takes action. The Lento Law Firm has negotiated with licensing boards to modify probationary terms to mitigate the consequences of adverse action. They can also represent or advise you when the board or other licensing authorities seek an investigation into complaints or accusations. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or visit us online to schedule a consultation.