Veterinarian Loses License for Drug Use and Mental Health Issues

Licensed professionals have high standards to uphold. In order to hold onto their license, they must display ethical and moral behavior in both their professional and personal lives. Any crimes they commit outside of the workplace can impact their license, as can unethical behavior unrelated to their jobs. When a person is accused of substandard behavior, they face a variety of penalties. In some cases, they can even lose their licenses.

This is what happened to a veterinarian who is facing criminal charges after he experienced numerous issues in his personal life. The California veterinarian has had his license suspended by the state veterinary board on May 4 after he was deemed unfit to practice. His office has since been shut down.

The board petitioned to suspend the man’s license on December 6, 2017. The board review noted that the veterinarian posed a danger to his patients as well as the public. Before the petition was filed, the veterinarian was arrested for using a controlled substance. He was also arrested on a separate instance for weapons possession. He was prohibited from owning weapons at the time.

The veterinarian’s troubles are not recent, however. He was first placed on probation in 2000 after he was deemed a chronic alcoholic. Since then, the vet has admitted to eight DUI convictions. He also has a history of Oxazepam abuse, as well as delusions, hallucinations and paranoia, which could be caused by the abuse.

In 2017, the vet was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation. It was determined that the man suffered from a mental illness that could affect his competency as a veterinarian. He is currently unable to practice. His upcoming court date will determine his fate.

Veterinary Ethics 

Veterinarians have a duty to uphold standards of professionalism at all times. Not only must they provide the best veterinary care possible to all patients, but they must also respect the law and the rights of clients and other health professionals.

Those who are deficient in character and competency are not fit to practice as a veterinarian. Veterinary medicine is a complex field that requires someone with the knowledge, skills and judgment to make the right decisions at all times, particularly when time is of the essence. A person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not someone who can make good decisions regarding the medical care of a client’s pet. Because of this, it is essential that a veterinarian make good decisions in and out of the workplace.

Keep Your License with Help From a Tampa Veterinarian Licensing Lawyer 

If you are a Florida veterinarian who is facing license loss, it’s imperative that you seek legal help right away. The Law Offices of David P. Rankin, P.A. can help you with the charges you face. With my help, you can get your charges reduced or eliminated altogether. I have 30 years of experience representing veterinarians and other licensed professionals. To schedule a consultation, call my office at (813) 968-6633 or fill out the online form.

Resources:

nbclosangeles.com/news/california/Dr-Brian-Hosking-Veterinarian-San-Marcos-Animal-Medical-Center-License-Suspended-Business-Closed-482412511.html

avma.org/KB/Policies/Pages/Principles-of-Veterinary-Medical-Ethics-of-the-AVMA.aspx