Arizona's trying to do it; a number of other states will likely follow. They want to make doctors' records public, including allegations, charges, and findings of misconduct. That may sound like a good idea in theory—accountability. It's certainly become a popular idea. The practical reality, though, is that it can expose doctors to unfair scrutiny. If you're trying to deal with unfounded and unproven accusations, it can make the practice of medicine infinitely more difficult. 

If you've been accused of some form of professional misconduct, we're on your side and ready to defend you. For more information, contact the Lento Law Firm Team today at 888-535-3686 or use our online form to tell us more about your case. 

A Digital World at Odds with Justice 

There's certainly nothing wrong with accountability, especially when it comes to health care. We all want to know that the doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals treating us are experts in their fields with impeccable credentials and records.   

The problem has to do with making allegations a matter of public record. An accusation isn't the same as a "finding of Responsibility." Accusations haven't been investigated. Accusations get made before you have a chance to defend yourself at a hearing. Anyone can make an accusation. And accusations can be based on misunderstandings, personality clashes, and plain old false reports.

The public tends to jump to conclusions. Once an allegation becomes a matter of public record, it can feel like fact. And those who come across an accusation online may never bother to follow up and find out how the case was resolved. The result? Reputations are tainted. Careers are ruined.

Again, this isn't to suggest that doctors shouldn't be held accountable for their actions. There are systems in place for this, though. Every state has its own Board of Medicine, made up of people who have the background and experience to evaluate doctors and to decide issues of guilt and innocence. Other health care professionals understand the issues, and they understand just how much is at stake. They can recognize misconduct, and they have a sense of what kinds of punishments are appropriate when misconduct occurs.  

Making allegations against physicians public allows the public to know more about the health care system. That can be a good thing. Too much information, though, can sometimes muddy the waters. The public is given to acting on half-truths and partial information. It's also prone to mob mentality. One rumor based on a misread personnel file can be enough to devastate someone's career. Professional evaluation needs to remain in the hands of professionals.  

Trust the Lento Law Firm 

The Lento Law Firm is always at work to ensure justice is done and those who are accused are afforded their rights and given the opportunity to prove their innocence. If you're a medical professional and you've been accused of professional misconduct, we're on your side. We'll make sure you're treated fairly and that you get the very best possible resolution to your case. 

To find out more, call 888-535-3686 today or use the online questionnaire.