The Effect of DUI Convictions on Medical and Nursing Licenses

As a medical professional, the stress and pressures of your job may be overwhelming at times. By virtue of your position, the public and your patients rely tremendously on your skill and judgment. 

A drunk driving conviction for a medical professional can mean the loss of licensure and the loss of your job. Different licenses are treated in different ways, so drunk driving penalties are based on the regulations of that particular state licensing board.

For nurses, the Ohio Board of Nursing deals with professional licensing.  Penalties for drunk driving or operating a vehicle impaired (OVI), according to the Ohio Revised Code, may include:

deny, revoke, suspend, or place restrictions on any nursing license, certificate of authority, or dialysis technician certificate issued by the board; reprimand or otherwise discipline a holder of a nursing license, certificate of authority, or dialysis technician certificate; or impose a fine of not more than five hundred dollars per violation.

Though drunk driving or OVI are not specifically listed as causes of license revocation, the code does state that conviction for “felony or a crime of moral turpitude in Ohio” or misdemeanor would make an Ohio nurse subject to these penalties.

Dentists and dental hygienists must pass a criminal background check prior to being licensed by the Ohio State Dental Board. The board has disciplinary guidelines including possible suspension or revocation of the license for any felony conviction or for any misdemeanor committed in the course of practice. A felony conviction can mean at least a temporary license suspension.

The State Board of Pharmacy is the licensing authority for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in Ohio.  OVI or drunk driving charges for pharmacists can have serious implications due to the sensitive nature of the work they’re required to do on a daily basis.

The State Medical Board of Ohio is the licensing authority for doctors.  The board has disciplinary guidelines it uses to address drunk driving or OVI convictions. Penalties may include probation, indefinite suspension, or even revocation of your license.

Clearly, the State of Ohio licensing boards have in place very strict guidelines and penalties connected with drunk driving or OVI for medical professionals.  If you find yourself in this situation in Pickaway County, you need the assistance of a skilled and trusted legal representative.

Pickaway County drunk driving attorney

If you’re a medical professional and you’ve been arrested on drunk driving charges, protect your rights and your career. You need the representation of a skilled attorney who can help you navigate the treacherous legal landscape. The Maher Law Firm can help make sure that your rights are protected. Founding attorney, Colin Maher is a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) certified practitioner for field sobriety testing, which is the same training police officers take. This training helps him evaluate and challenge the evidence collection involved in the BAC test process. Call The Maher Law Firm today for a free consultation at 614-205-2208 or contact us online.