Showing up for work less than sober is a fireable offense almost everywhere. For medical professionals, though, it comes with an additional risk. As a Minnesota dental hygienist learned, alcohol can also lead to the revocation of a medical license, rendering someone unable to work in the industry at all. 

The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team helps medical professionals who are dealing with licensing issues. Our knowledgeable attorneys have years of experience in helping medical professionals prepare and participate in medical board disciplinary hearings. If you're a healthcare professional whose license is in jeopardy, contact our team at 888-535-3686 or use our online form to request a consultation. 

When Drinking Leads to Licensing Issues 

Drinking and dental work don't mix. That's what one Minnesota hygienist learned recently when her license was suspended. The hygienist reportedly showed up for work under the influence of alcohol, administering treatment to more than one patient. She was sent home, only to allegedly arrive smelling of alcohol the next morning. 

The hygienist, who has practiced in the state since 1991, did not show up for the preliminary hearing. The suspension went through, but in 12 months, she can petition to have her suspension lifted. She'll first need to meet the following license reinstatement requirements: 

• Completing the required application 
• Paying required fees 
• Participating in continuing education 

Losing Your License 

Becoming a dental hygienist takes time. You'll spend at least a couple of years in school in addition to clinical training and labs. Once you've passed the licensure exam, you'll be approved to start practicing. With each day you work, you gain valuable experience that hopefully advances you in your field someday. 

When a medical professional's license is at risk, it puts all that hard work in jeopardy. Worse, getting the license back can be tricky, and in some cases, impossible. As evidenced by the dental hygienist who lost her license, in some cases you can get it back if you complete a required list of steps. If substance abuse was a factor, that often means attending some sort of counseling. 

Defending Your License 

The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team regularly works with healthcare providers facing license revocation. Medical boards typically allow defense attorneys to be at a professional's side on the day of the hearing, and simply having someone represent you at the licensure meeting can help ease your stress. 

But our team does far more than show up on the day of the hearing. We'll work with you to review the complaint and come up with a plan to advocate on your behalf. If the complaint merits dismissal, we'll request it, and if not, we'll come up with a compromise that will reduce your penalties as much as possible. If your license is suspended, we'll create a plan to have it reinstated following the guidelines set out by your state. 

Having your medical license at risk can be upsetting, but legal representation can help. The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team has the experience necessary to navigate your local licensing board regulations and craft the right defense. Call us at 888-535-3686 or provide details of your situation using our online form, and we'll be in touch.