Receiving a notice from the DC Board of Medicine, DC Board of Dentistry, or a Virginia medical or dental board can be an alarming experience for any healthcare professional. Whether triggered by a patient complaint, a peer report, or an administrative audit, being summoned before a licensing board carries serious implications. Even allegations that seem minor can escalate quickly, placing your professional license, reputation, and career at risk.

At Burnham & Gorokhov, PLLC, we understand the high stakes involved in medical board proceedings. Early, strategic legal representation can make the difference between a resolved issue and long-term professional consequences. If you have received a notice to appear, it is critical to act carefully and proactively.

Common Reasons for Board Actions

Medical and dental boards in both Washington, D.C., and Virginia have broad authority to regulate licensed professionals. Proceedings can arise from a wide variety of allegations, including:

• Patient complaints regarding care, bedside manner, or professionalism
• Allegations of substandard treatment or medical errors
• Improper record-keeping or documentation failures
• Accusations of unprofessional conduct, including boundary violations
• Substance abuse concerns affecting professional judgment
• Billing fraud or insurance irregularities
• Failure to meet continuing education requirements
• Criminal charges or convictions, even unrelated to clinical practice

Importantly, even unintentional mistakes or misunderstandings can lead to formal board actions. Boards prioritize protecting the public, often at the expense of giving the benefit of the doubt to the provider.

The Process: From Notice to Hearing

Typically, a board action begins with an initial inquiry or investigation. You may be asked to submit a written response, provide medical records, or appear for an informal interview. In more serious cases, the board may initiate formal disciplinary proceedings, requiring a full hearing where your license may be suspended, restricted, or revoked.

In Washington, D.C., the Department of Health oversees professional board hearings. In Virginia, the Department of Health Professions handles investigations through its various licensing boards. Each jurisdiction has specific procedural rules, but common steps include:

• Notification of allegations or complaints
• Request for a written response or appearance
• Formal investigation and review of evidence
• Negotiations for settlement (e.g., consent orders)
• Formal administrative hearing if no resolution is reached

Failing to respond to a board notice, or responding carelessly without legal counsel, can severely harm your defense and limit your options.

Why Early Legal Representation Matters

Many healthcare professionals mistakenly believe they can resolve the situation on their own by explaining the circumstances to the board. However, anything you say can be used against you later in the investigation or formal proceedings. Having an experienced professional license defense attorney early in the process ensures that your rights are protected and that your responses are framed carefully and strategically.

At Burnham & Gorokhov, PLLC, we assist clients by:

• Reviewing the allegations and evidence against them
• Preparing comprehensive, strategic written responses
• Representing clients during interviews, conferences, and hearings
• Negotiating favorable outcomes, including dismissal of charges or non-disciplinary resolutions
• Advocating aggressively to preserve your license and career

Potential Consequences of Board Action

A board action can lead to a range of outcomes, including:

• Dismissal of the complaint (best outcome)
• Formal reprimand or public censure
• Fines or civil penalties
• Mandated continuing education, monitoring, or treatment
• Suspension, probation, or revocation of your professional license
• Reporting to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), affecting future employment

Even relatively minor board actions can have lasting effects, impacting hospital privileges, credentialing, insurance contracts, and professional reputation.

Take Action to Protect Your Future

If you are a physician, dentist, nurse, or other healthcare professional who has received a notice to appear before a licensing board in Washington, D.C., or Virginia, time is not on your side. The earlier you involve experienced legal counsel, the better your chances of protecting your license and minimizing damage to your career.

The attorneys at Burnham & Gorokhov, PLLC have extensive experience representing professionals before medical, dental, and healthcare licensing boards. We understand how to navigate the administrative process, defend your rights, and advocate for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and let us help you safeguard your professional future.