How can you know if your doctor has a disciplinary record?

When you visit the doctor, you assume that you will receive quality care and advice. Patients place a significant amount of trust in medical professionals, but there are times when the actions of a doctor or care provider result in patient harm. You may not know that other patients had problems with your doctor in the past, but it may be worthwhile to look into the provider’s disciplinary record before you move forward. This will help you understand if you are receiving the best care possible. 

As a patient, you are your most important advocate. It is important to know whether your doctor has experienced disciplinary problems related to medical negligence, criminal convictions, prescribing the wrong medication and other issues that could compromise the safety of patients. You will benefit from knowing how to research your doctor’s disciplinary record. 

Practicing with a disciplinary record?

It may surprise you that a doctor could continue to practice, even if they have a history of patient problems and other issues. Hospitals have access to a database that allows them to see a doctor’s history, but patients cannot access these records. The most effective way to learn about your doctor’s disciplinary history is to look at the state’s medical board licensing page. Delaware makes doctors’ full license history available to the public.  

If you want additional information about your doctor, you may also be able to look at the Federation of State Medical Boards’ DocInfo. These resources will allow you to find out if your care provider has a history of poor patient care and mistakes that resulted in patient harm. Doctors may even change states so they can continue practicing after an incident. Still, your due diligence can help you determine if you should seek medical advice from a different medical practitioner. 

Medical malpractice victims

When a doctor makes a mistake, it can result in negative effects for a patient, leading to additional pain and suffering for that individual and his or her family. If you believe that you are the victim of any malpractice, you may benefit from learning more about the legal options available to you. Pursuing recourse through the civil justice system may be possible, seeking appropriate compensation for losses and other damages.