Patients entrust healthcare workers with their well-being, often in their most vulnerable moments. However, sometimes, that trust is broken, which can lead to an irreversible blemish on one's professional record and derail future prospects. If your job and credentials are threatened by misconduct allegations, call the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or visit our confidential online consultation form, and we will reach out to you.

Patient's Gold Bracelet Goes Missing

A healthcare worker at North Fulton Hospital in Roswell, Georgia, is alleged to have taken a patient's valuable bracelet. In October, a 95-year-old woman was transported to the hospital by ambulance and was wearing the gold chain link bracelet (valued at $1,000) at the time. However, the patient's daughter claims that once her mother was admitted to a hospital room, the bracelet was missing.

Following the allegations, the healthcare worker was arrested and charged with three counts of theft by taking, two of which are felonies. She was released on bond and promptly placed on administrative leave by her employer. After apologizing to the family, Wellstar Health System issued a statement explaining that the institution is "cooperating with the investigating authorities and will take further action as appropriate.”

Board Disciplinary Process

Although the occupation of the healthcare worker is unknown, it's highly likely that they would have to be licensed. Healthcare facilities are obligated to report the incident to the appropriate licensing board, which would be the Georgia Board of Nursing for nurses, and the Georgia Composite Medical Board for other professionals.

The board will assess the complaint and move to collect evidence, interview parties to the incident, and review the worker's prior disciplinary history. Accused individuals have the right to submit a written response to the board and retain professional legal assistance. If the board determines that a hearing is necessary, it will conduct formal proceedings where both parties can present evidence and testimony. Based on the findings, the board may take actions such as:

• Probation: Allowing the worker to continue employment under certain conditions.
• Mandated Education: Requiring the worker to complete specific programs geared at rehabilitation.
• License Suspension: Temporarily prohibiting practice.
• License Revocation: Permanently removing the ability to practice or work in healthcare in Georgia.

Disciplinary investigations and actions are typically made available to the public and other regulatory agencies, which can affect the worker's ability to find employment elsewhere in the industry. Unfortunately, even if the worker is later exonerated, the allegations themselves can do irreparable damage to one's career.

You Need Professional Help If Accused

The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team is dedicated to helping professionals navigate allegations from the beginning of the disciplinary process through hearings and appeals. Our team provides guidance for workers and licensees throughout the healthcare industry.

Although healthcare workers are entitled to due process provisions like the right to respond, present evidence, and be represented, that doesn't mean the grievance process is similar to a courtroom trial. Whenever allegations arise, our team is ready to mount a robust defense tailored to your situation. Call the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or visit our confidential consultation form, and we reach out to you.