A professional license in Wyoming typically only costs a few hundred dollars. What licensure represents, however, is worth far more. A significant amount of time, energy, and money is often required to obtain a professional license. Whether you're a physician, dentist, nurse, teacher, electrician, or other licensed professional, losing your license can be devastating. Any allegations that jeopardize the status of your license must be treated with utmost seriousness. To protect your future and professional reputation, seek the help of Joseph D. Lento and his experienced Professional License Defense Team.
Defending Professional Licenses in Wyoming
Professional violations can put your career at risk. Confidentiality breaches, sexual misconduct, drug misuse, and more can all put your license on the line. Even non-work-related convictions like DUIs can threaten your licensure. When faced with allegations of professional misconduct, it's crucial to consult with an experienced Professional License Defense Attorney right away.
Joseph D. Lento and his team defend healthcare and other licensed professionals facing such allegations in Wyoming and throughout the country. They have a proven track record of helping clients keep their licenses. To discuss your case, contact the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686.
Navigating Wyoming's Disciplinary Process for Licensed Professionals
The board responsible for granting your professional license will also investigate any allegations of misconduct. While specific procedures and guidelines may differ, the following process is typically followed by all boards.
Complaint
Many disciplinary proceedings are initiated following complaints. The Wyoming Board of Medicine handles complaints against physicians, physician assistants, perfusionists, respiratory care practitioners, acupuncturists, radiologist assistants, and surgical technologists. There are other boards that oversee healthcare professionals in the counseling, nursing, and dentistry fields. Other agencies responsible for licensed professionals include the Wyoming Board of Pharmacy, the Wyoming State Board of Cosmetology, the State Board of Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors, and the Board of Education.
Complaints may be filed by anyone, but common complainants typically include the following categories:
- Colleagues
- Patients or clients
- Other practitioners
- Insurers (typically in cases of suspected fraud)
- Court clerks (e.g., reporting a recent criminal conviction to your licensing board)
Investigation
Upon receipt of a complaint, the relevant licensing agency will launch an investigation. Expect to receive written notice of the investigation, which may provide you with an opportunity to respond to the complaint. The investigator may contact you to schedule an interview or may arrive at your office unannounced, particularly if the complaint includes allegations of drug or alcohol impairment.
Once the initial investigation is complete, the investigator will file a report, and the agency will determine the next steps. These may include closing the complaint or moving forward with further actions, like interviewing the complainant or issuing a subpoena for relevant records.
Given the potential risk to your professional license, it is important to contact Attorney Joseph D. Lento and his experienced Professional License Defense Team as soon as you receive notice of the investigation.
Consent Agreement
In case the investigation leads to disciplinary action, the licensing agency may propose a consent agreement where you admit liability or guilt, but it may prevent you from losing your license. The agreement may require penalties like drug treatment or mandatory classes. Joseph D. Lento and his Professional License Defense Team can guide you on the most suitable approach while negotiating a consent agreement with the licensing board.
Hearing
Attending the administrative hearing is mandatory if a consent agreement is not offered or cannot be reached. During the hearing, the licensing board will present its case, and you will have the opportunity to respond to the evidence presented against you and provide reasons why your professional license should not be suspended or revoked. Following this, the licensing board will make a determination of your guilt or innocence and determine the disciplinary actions to take against you.
Protect Your Professional License with the Help of the Lento Law Firm
Unlike other kinds of legal matters, the complainant that may jeopardize your professional license does not bear any expenses or need to engage legal counsel. Additionally, there are no limitations on filing a complaint for certain professions, such as those overseen by the Wyoming Board of Medicine. As a result, the burden of risk falls entirely on the subject of the complaint.
When facing allegations of professional misconduct, representing yourself is a bad idea. The stakes are too high to take such a risk. To improve your chances of a positive outcome, seek the guidance of the Lento Law Firm. Joseph D. Lento and his Professional License Defense Team can assist you throughout the process – the sooner you retain them, the better. They can provide various services, including:
- Review the complaint and develop a strong defense by collecting evidence, procuring witnesses, and more.
- Represent you in all formal interactions with the administrative board.
- Craft a compelling response to the complainant, upping the odds of the matter being dismissed altogether.
- Engage in negotiations with the board to secure the dismissal of the complaint or to obtain more favorable penalties.
- Work to secure favorable consent agreement terms.
- Provide legal representation for you in a formal hearing before the board if it becomes necessary.
Areas the Lento Law Firm Serves in Wyoming
The Lento Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team offers services to licensed workers, including doctors, nurses, dentists, and other healthcare professionals in every community in Wyoming. We have clients residing in densely populated areas and healthcare hubs across the Cowboy State, and we are readily available to provide representation in the following areas:
Cheyenne
Cheyenne is the capital and largest city of Wyoming, with a population of approximately 65,000 people. The city has several hospitals, including Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. The largest healthcare facility in the city, it offers a broad range of services, including emergency care, cancer care, and surgical services. The hospital is also a Level II Trauma Center, providing advanced care to critically ill patients. Other notable healthcare providers in the city include Cheyenne VA Medical Center, Laramie County Community College Health Sciences Center, and Premier Bone and Joint Centers.
Casper
Casper, Wyoming, has a growing healthcare industry, with Wyoming Medical Center as the largest healthcare provider in the city. The hospital offers emergency care, cancer treatment, and orthopedic services. In addition to the hospital, there are several clinics and medical centers in Casper that provide primary and specialty care. The city has a number of nursing homes and assisted living facilities to serve its aging population. Despite the challenges of being located in a relatively rural state, the healthcare industry in Casper continues to expand and provide vital services to the community.
Laramie
Laramie, Wyoming, is home to a thriving healthcare industry. The city has two hospitals – Ivinson Memorial Hospital and Albany Community Health Clinic – that provide a wide range of medical services to residents. Laramie also has numerous medical clinics and private practices that offer specialized medical services such as cardiology, dermatology, and urology. The University of Wyoming, located in Laramie, also has a medical school that trains the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Gillette
Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, Gilette is home to the Campbell County Memorial Hospital. This non-profit healthcare organization serves the residents of Campbell County and surrounding areas. The hospital provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, primary care, surgery, and specialized medical services such as cardiology and oncology. In addition to the hospital, Gillette also has a number of clinics and medical offices offering various medical services, such as pediatrics, women's health, and mental health.
Rock Springs
Rock Springs is a city in Sweetwater County, Wyoming, with a population of approximately 23,000 people. The city is home to the Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County, which offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. In addition to the hospital, there are also several clinics and medical offices in the area that offer a variety of medical services to the community.
Actions or Claims that Could Endanger Your Professional License
Professional license boards expect licensees to maintain public trust. When complaints are filed, the licensing board must take action. For example, the Wyoming Board of Medicine may extend a formal reprimand or place a practitioner on probation if they violate the Medical Practices Act. Allegations that lead to disciplinary action include:
Deceptive Practices
In the healthcare industry, fraud may take the following forms:
- overbilling or upcoding insurance providers, i.e., charging for a more expensive service than the one actually performed
- billing patients or insurance companies for services that were never rendered
- collecting referral kickbacks
- falsifying diagnoses to collect reimbursement from the insurance company
- providing services outside the scope of one's license
Gross Negligence or Abuse
This includes any actions that threaten the health, safety, or well-being of a patient. Examples include:
- physical abuse, including sexual assault
- emotional abuse, like threatening a patient
- violating patient confidentiality laws
- medical errors, including medication errors
Sexual Misconduct/Inappropriate Relationships
Ethical violations of the sexual or romantic variety are among the most serious. Sexual misconduct may also include unwanted sexual advances toward colleagues or patients, sexual harassment, or assault.
Improper Handling of Medications
If an administrative board finds a practitioner guilty of prescribing or dispensing medications irresponsibly or beyond the scope of their license, they may face severe penalties. The penalties can also be harsh if they incorrectly track medications or steal them for personal use.
Improper Record Keeping
Maintaining accurate and complete patient records is an essential aspect of patient care. If a licensee is found guilty of maintaining incomplete or disorganized patient records or falsifying information in them, their license may be at risk.
Addiction/Substance Abuse
If a practitioner is found guilty of drug or alcohol abuse, which can impair their judgment and ability to provide safe patient care, they may face the risk of losing their license.
Criminal Convictions
Your professional license may be in jeopardy if the administrative board is made aware of your criminal conviction for driving under the influence, offenses involving moral turpitude, or crimes related to your field.
Professional License Defense Services for Licensed Professionals in Wyoming
Attorney Joseph D. Lento and his Professional License Defense Team have vast experience in advocating for licensed professionals across Wyoming and the nation. If you hold a license for any of these professions, the Lento Law Firm is equipped to provide you with the necessary legal support:
- physician
- nurse
- physician assistant
- dentist
- pharmacist
- mental health professional
- podiatrist
- anesthesiologist
- chiropractor
- physical therapist
- audiologist
- real estate agent
- K-12 educator
- cosmetologist
- insurance agent
- architect
- CPA
- other licensed professions
Accusations of professional wrongdoing can escalate quickly, jeopardizing your license, income, reputation, and future. That's why it's so important to work with an attorney who can guide you through the next steps and help you make the most informed decisions moving forward.
The Professional License Defense Team, led by Attorney Joseph D. Lento, is available to offer you the exceptional representation you need. To schedule a review of your case and begin the process of restoring your good name and protecting your professional license, contact us online or call 888-535-3686 .
