Doctors are held to a high professional standard. This means that if something goes wrong, they can be held liable in both the civil and criminal courts.
Here are some of the most common crimes that doctors may be charged with.
Health care fraud
Health care fraud is a serious white-collar offense. It occurs when a medical provider gives misleading information to profit personally. For example, a doctor may give false information to insurance providers, such as exaggerated bills, to gain financial benefits.
The penalties for health care fraud are serious. A doctor can be fined, lose their professional license and even face jail time.
Prescription drug offenses
While drug charges often involve illegal drugs, they can also involve legitimate medications administered incorrectly. If a doctor does not adhere to prescription guidelines, they could face criminal charges. These matters are taken very seriously, particularly when the improper administration of opioids is involved.
Negligent homicide
Negligent homicide is a type of manslaughter. It occurs when a doctor contributes to the death of a patient by acting negligently or recklessly. To face this type of charge, the doctor usually has to act in a manner that falls well outside of the industry standard. Their conduct would have to be grossly negligent or reckless.
Other charges that doctors may face include:
- Tax evasion: Practices must submit accurate tax information.
- Money laundering: All money that passes through a medical practice must be legitimate.
- Assault: Doctors may face assault charges if they perform invasive procedures without proper consent.
As a doctor, you have a reputation and professional license to protect. Being charged does not automatically mean guilt. You have a presumption of innocence and a right to defend the charges against you. Seeking legal guidance will help you assert these rights.