Most doctors are consummate and compassionate professionals who strive to provide the best care to their patients. Sometimes, however, even competent physicians who believe they are providing an accepted standard of care can face accusations of serious wrongdoing and lose their licenses, their practice, and even their freedom as a result.

In some cases, these accusations can be very serious indeed and include murder. Unfortunately, one doctor found this out the hard way. Dr. William Husel worked at Cincinnati's Mount Carmel West Hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as an overnight doctor. He received murder charges for allegedly administering too much fentanyl to patients who later died.

Dr. Husel is not alone. Numerous physicians across the country face harsh administrative—and sometimes criminal and civil consequences—for allegedly engaging in wrongful conduct that later turns out to be completely untrue--or the action does not constitute the egregious offense that cost the physician their license.

It's important to respond to any allegations the moment you learn of them and contact an experienced Professional License Defense attorney to protect your right and help you get the best outcome possible.

Dr. Husel's Story

Although Dr. William Husel received the Physician Recognition Award from the hospital as its top doctor in 2014, Trinity Health, the parent company of Mount Carmel West, informed the doctor—the day before Thanksgiving—that administrators had “some questions…regarding dosing of medication” and their concerns were serious. The hospital accused the doctor of “giving too much fentanyl and other drugs to patients.”

Husel was “blindsided” by the accusations. Nevertheless, he was suspended, fired, and then charged with murder. To make matters worse, he had explained his actions to “hospital administration and thought they understood.”

Although Husel was eventually acquitted on all 14 counts of murder, the damage had been done. He still had no license, no practice, and his family had to move in with his parents.

The ordeal caused him to experience considerable emotional distress and PTSD that got so severe it adversely impacted his mobility. To add insult to injury, Husel and his attorney believed that Trinity Health had tried to “paint him as a villain,” he has since filed lawsuits against them for “defamation and malicious prosecution.”

What to Do If This Happens to You

The takeaway from Dr. Husel's story is that you need to take immediate action to address accusations of wrongdoing as a licensed physician, particularly if you were acting within the scope of your practice. The sooner you address the allegations, the better your chances of securing a favorable resolution before severe repercussions affect your licensure and future.

If you are a licensed physician facing accusations of serious wrongdoing that could cost you your license, contact the Professional License Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm for help. Our attorneys have many years of experience defending physicians against disciplinary actions. We will review your case, advise you of your options, and help you create an effective defense. Contact our Professional License Defense Team at (888) 535-3686 to discuss your options.