Applying for a Florida Medical Doctor License with Prior Discipline

This is part one. For part two, visit Applying for a Florida Medical Doctor License with a Malpractice History.

Lots of physicians apply to become licensed in Florida via licensure by endorsement. However, a physician licensed in another state or jurisdiction may have prior discipline or could be in the process of being investigated for a violation.

Prior discipline can greatly impact your license application with the Florida Department of Health (DOH) and the Florida Board of Medicine.

Howell, Buchan & Strong’s legal team can help physicians:

• Complete the 20+ page application for licensure.
• Communicate with the DOH Licensing Unit and Florida Board of Medicine.
• Prepare explanations of your disciplinary history.
• Prepare a formal letter to the Board of Medicine in support of the application.
• Ensure all necessary documentation is provided to DOH and the Board of Medicine.
• Prepare you for your appearance in front of the Board of Medicine Credentialing Committee.

I Have Prior Discipline, What Documents Do I Provide?

While every state has slightly different processes, they all regulate doctors, usually through a state agency and/or medical board. In the State of Florida, if you have been disciplined by the governing body for your medical license, you will need to disclose that on your Florida application. Disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to, revocation, suspension, probation, reprimand, citation, fines, and requirement to take educational courses.

If you have been disciplined, you must provide a written self-explanation, and a copy of all pertinent documents, including complaints, orders, and anything showing the end result of the case. Since every state is a bit different in how they document discipline, we recommend consulting an experienced health care attorney to determine what should be produced to DOH. He or she can also assist in drafting your self-explanation, making sure that it thoroughly explains the incident to the Florida Board.

A similar process applies if you are under investigation in another state, even if you have not been formally disciplined. Florida again requires a written self-explanation and formal documentation of the status of your case.

What Happens After Submitting My Application?

Once you have submitted the application and all required documentation, you may be required to appear before the Florida Board of Medicine Credentials Committee. The Committee is the body that decides whether you will be granted a license.

This Committee interviews license applicants whose prior history, including malpractice cases, raises questions of concern regarding the ability to practice with skill and safety, or questions about an applicant’s performance in medical school or prior practice in other jurisdictions. The Committee reports to the full board with recommendations on approval or denial of applications. Depending on the type of case, the license application may be granted, denied, or granted with conditions.

The Committee members may have questions about the discipline you received and the underlying facts of the discipline case. It is important that you answer all questions honestly and tactfully.

Our firm thoroughly prepares our clients for their appearance before the Committee and appears with them at the hearing.

Have Questions? Let’s Talk

Whether you’re already licensed in another jurisdiction or if you’re getting licensed for the first time, the Florida application process can be complex and confusing. Contact the law firm of Howell, Buchan & Strong at 850-877-7776 to set up a FREE, no-obligation consultation. Our firm represents physicians, nurses, psychologists, and other licensed professionals statewide. 

Orlando (407) 717-1773 | Tallahassee (850) 877-7776 | Tampa (813) 833-6726 | Sarasota (941) 779-4348