You invested countless tears, an immense amount of time and effort, buckets of sweat and considerable funds into becoming a certified medical professional. Driving under the influence charge can threaten the rewards of all your hard work.
According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, there were over 11,000 deaths from wrecks involving alcohol in 2020 alone. Driving while under the influence has serious consequences, legal and potentially lethal. For healthcare providers like you, the possible repercussions encompass even more.
Medical revocation
A DUI can lead to you losing your license and ability to practice medicine. This is not a direct consequence of having a DUI. You gain the label of a “risk to the public” and your reputation may suffer damage. You also have 30 days from conviction to report it to the appropriate boards, after which you may find yourself at a hearing before the medical licensing board, which may strip you of your license if it finds you unfit to practice medicine. Not disclosing the conviction is also grounds to lose your license. The board may also take other disciplinary actions.
Rehabilitative program
An option you have is to enter the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program. If you successfully complete it, the government may expunge your conviction. If you choose to participate in ARD, you must also inform the appropriate people about your decision.
Even though your DUI may happen outside of your working hours, it can still have a serious impact on your professional life. It is important to follow the proper reporting procedures after a conviction and demonstrate that you are a responsible healthcare professional.