Licensing Problems

Problems obtaining a license or renewing a license are commonplace.  This is especially true for applicants who have some degree of life experience. The job of a healthcare licensing Board is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.  Any prior actions or indiscretions by the applicant that create Board concerns will need to be explained.  In other words, a Board must be persuaded, often by clear and convincing evidence, that the applicant will act responsibly and professionally.

The Board will frequently require the applicant to attend an interview and answer questions when the Board has the following concerns and issues:

• The physical and mental capability to safely engage in the applicant’s area of practice
• The professional record indicates that the applicant has committed any act or engaged in any conduct that would constitute grounds for disciplinary action
• A license to practice was revoked by a regulatory Board in another state for unprofessional conduct
• An applicant is currently under investigation, suspension, or restriction by a professional regulatory Board in another state for unprofessional conduct
• An applicant surrendered a license to practice in lieu of disciplinary action by a regulatory Board in another field or another state
• An applicant failed to complete the application as required by the Board or lied on the application

If an applicant committed an act or engaged in conduct that would constitute grounds for disciplinary action, the Board will determine whether the conduct has been corrected, monitored, and resolved.  It is the responsibility of the applicant to prove to the Board that he/she is capable of practicing safely, responsibly, and ethically.  In these cases, it is prudent and advisable to hire an attorney to assist with the presentation to the Board so that the members understand any prior negative actions and feel confident in and comfortable with the applicant.  An attorney can assist with the initial letter of explanation and recommend remedial activities.