As of 2011, Illinois ranked in the top 20 of medical state licensing boards' serious doctor disciplinary action rates. The state reported 143 cases, resulting in an average of 3.45 serious actions per every 1,000 physicians from 2009 to 2011.
Doctors called into question for medical malpractice face the possibility of having their license suspended or revoked. However, this only limits medical practice in the state they are currently licensed and a doctor under investigation can still obtain licensure in other states.
According to a Bloomberg report, a general practitioner surrendered his license in Missouri “in lieu of discipline” for violation of several drug laws as part of a settlement agreement in 2009, but secured a license to practice in Illinois as he was being investigated.
The physician's license was revoked in Missouri, but the Illinois board allowed him to continue practicing in 2011, according to an agreement instituting:
- An indefinite probation of a minimum of five years while his practice was monitored by another physician;
- A suspension from practicing for 30 days; and
- Continuation of psychiatric therapy.
Almost $3.6 million was paid by Medicare for his services in 2012.
If a hospital, clinic or other health care facility hires a doctor with poor qualifications or a history of misconduct or low standard of care, the facility may be liable for institutional negligence if that doctor injures a patient. If you have been injured due to medical malpractice in Illinois, contact an experienced Chicago medical negligence attorney today. Call the law office of [[title]] at [[phone]] for a free consultation regarding your case in Cook County, the State of Illinois, or across the country.
