Doctors: Don’t Let Your Clinical Privileges or Employment at a Hospital End While a Complaint or Investigation Is Pending
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Physicians often consult us after their case is over and an adverse National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) report has been submitted on them. In many cases, it was because the physician allowed her or his clinical privileges or […]
Florida Surgeon Handed Seven Years in Prison for $28 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On November 18, 2021, a Tallahassee surgeon was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for committing health care fraud, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The scheme involved performing hundreds of medically unnecessary, […]
DOJ Withdraws Outdated Antitrust Policy Statements For Healthcare Industry; “Safety Zones” Abolished
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On February 3, 2023, the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) withdrew three “outdated” antitrust policy statements applicable to healthcare markets. These have been in effect and relied upon for decades by those in the […]
Follow Our Tips for Taking Your USMLE Step Exams If You Want To Score Higher
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Here are some common-sense tips you should be sure you follow that may help you to reduce stress and score higher when you take your United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step examinations. You should be doing everything […]
8 Major Chinese Med Schools Taken Off World Directory Relied on by ECFMG and USMLE
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In April 2014, the new World Directory of Medical Schools (“World Directory”) was published. It took over as the definitive list of medical schools in the world (yes, the whole world). There are 180 Chinese medical schools […]
Massage Therapists-You MUST Obtain License Complaint Defense Coverage Insurance
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I am often called on to represent massage therapists accused of sexually molesting a client during the course of the massage or for offering sex to an undercover agent. Most often, this type of case comes to us […]
Florida Man Pleads Guilty To $36.2 Million Telehealth Medicare Fraud Scheme
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On March 20th, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in the Middle District of Florida, announced that a Florida man pled guilty to conspiring to commit health care fraud in a $36.2 million telemedicine fraud scheme. As part of […]
Florida Telehealth Laws for Mental Health Counselors, Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling has published the following guidance regarding the provision of telehealth services. As of October 11, 2021, it is still effective and is provided […]
DOH Releases Quarterly Report Covering Through March 2021
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The Florida Department of Health’s Quarterly Performance Report (QPR) for the Third Quarter of Fiscal Year 2020-2021, was recently released. It provides information and statistics on actions involving licensed health professionals through March 2021. Scope of the Florida […]
NAPB Sends False Examination Results to Hundreds of Pharmacy Graduates. Again.
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On November 19, 2022, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) was hit with a proposed class action lawsuit after falsely reporting that individuals had failed the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX). This is reportedly the […]
When the DEA Comes Knocking: 15 Tips If You Find Yourself Facing a “Routine” DEA Inspection
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law As the United States continues to open back up from the COVID-19 shutdown, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is resuming on-site routine inspections. Therefore, healthcare professionals must ensure compliance and regulatory efforts are in place. This is part […]
Letter from the OIG Terminating You from the Medicare Program? What You Need to Do!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Have you received a letter from the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) proposing to terminate you or exclude you from the Medicare Program? This is an extremely […]
What You Need to Know Right Now If the DEA is Knocking on Your Door!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Is the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) knocking at your door or, even worse, going through your files inside your office? If so, this is what you need to know right now! YES, you do have the right to […]
Department of Health Quarterly Report Released Covering Through March 2021
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The Florida Department of Health’s Quarterly Performance Report (QPR) for the Third Quarter of Fiscal Year 2020-2021, was recently released. It provides information and statistics on actions involving licensed health professionals through March 2021. Scope of the Florida […]
Male Surgeon Wins $15 Million Verdict in Suit Based on “Reverse Discrimination” and Anti-Male Bias; Hospital Requests New Trial
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law and Hartley Brooks, Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm In a massive jury verdict awarding a male attending physician more than he requested, a jury found that a hospital demonstrated reverse discrimination and an anti-mail bias in how […]
Is the DEA Knocking on Your Door? What You Need to Know Right Now!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Is the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) knocking at your door or, even worse, going through your files inside your office? This is what you need to know right now! YES, you do have the right to call your […]
Maryland & Missouri Become 20th and 21st States to Legalize Recreational Marijuana
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Five states had proposals to legalize recreational marijuana on the ballot in the midterm elections held on November 8, 2022. Voters in Maryland and Missouri approved the legalization, while Arkansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota rejected similar proposals. […]
Good News and Bad News for ECFMG & USMLE Applicants: Recent Changes for the USMLE Step Exams
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law These are some recently announced changes that could significantly impact anyone seeking to take the USMLE Step exams. This could be construed as good news by many and bad news by many others. Regardless, here it is. […]
Eight Major Chinese Medical Schools No Longer Listed in World Directory Relied on by ECFMG and USMLE
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In April 2014, the new World Directory of Medical Schools (“World Directory”) was published. It took over as the definitive list of medical schools in the world (yes, the whole world). There are 180 Chinese medical schools […]
When the DEA Comes Knocking: 15 Tips For a “Routine” DEA Inspection
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law As the United States continues to open back up from the COVID-19 shutdown, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is resuming on-site routine inspections. Therefore, healthcare professionals must ensure compliance and regulatory efforts are in place. This is part […]
Follow These Simple Rules To Keep Your License & Avoid Complaints If You Are a Counselor or Psychotherapists
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I represent many mental health counselors, social workers, psychologists, and professional counselors, defending them on complaints being investigated against their professional licenses. Many complaints and investigations arise because the therapist has strayed over the line and crossed the […]
Accused of Irregular Behavior on the USMLE? Here’s What You Will Do Wrong
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law We frequently receive calls for consultations from students who receive a letter from the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) accusing the medical student or medical resident of “Irregular Behavior” on the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). […]
Find the Right Attorney For Your Irregular Behavior Case Before the USMLE or ECFMG
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law If you have received a letter from the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Secretariat or the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) accusing you of “irregular behavior,” this is very serious stuff. You need an experienced […]
What is the Cost For Legal Defense in a Hospital Medical Staff Peer Review Fair Hearing?
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law If you are a physician, nurse practitioner, oral surgeon, dentist, or other health professional with clinical privileges in a hospital, you may face a situation where you are required to defend yourself at a “fair hearing.” A […]
A Criminal Offense On Your Record Can Prevent You from Obtaining Your License in Florida
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Someone arrested for a criminal offense knows that it can lead to a criminal record that may or may not be on your record for the rest of your life. However, once you pay your fine and carry […]
Mental Health Counselors & Social Workers: If You’re Applying for Your Professional License, Read This First!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The process of obtaining a mental health counselor or social worker professional license can be challenging and time-consuming. When seeking initial licensure or applying for a license in another state, you should be aware of delays in the […]
A Criminal Record Can Prevent You from Obtaining Your License in Florida
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Someone arrested for a criminal offense knows that it can lead to a criminal record that may or may not be on your record for the rest of your life. However, once you pay your fine and carry […]
From the archives: A Criminal Offense Can Prevent You from Obtaining Your License in Florida
Previously published on October 14, 2022By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Someone arrested for a criminal offense knows that it can lead to a criminal record that may or may not be on your record for the rest of your life. However, once you […]
HHS OIG Release of New “General Compliance Program Guidance” Provides Valuable Insight on Prevention of Health Care Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
By Michelle E. Missigman, J.D. On November 6, 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of the Inspector General (OIG), released 91 pages of “General Compliance Program Guidance” (GCPG) on its website. This is the first compliance program guidance the OIG has released since 2008. The GCPG provides general compliance guidance, […]
Types of Disciplinary Actions Taken By the Board of Massage Therapy
By Castillana F. Duvernay, J.D. The Florida Board of Massage Therapy can take disciplinary actions against you and your massage establishment if you are not adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by the Board of Massage Therapy and the statutes that govern the practice of massage. We see common themes and issues that […]
Tele-behavioral Health: Important Legal Considerations for Mental Health Providers
By Amanda I. Forbes, J.D. Starting in 2020 and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, tele-behavioral health services, also known as “e-counseling,” rapidly expanded. Because individuals were quarantined or fearful to venture out, remote mental health care services became very popular among patients. A study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), including 36 […]
Are You Applying for a Dental or Health Professional License? Read Our Helpful Tips
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The process of obtaining a dental or health professional license can be challenging and time-consuming. When seeking initial licensure or applying for a license in another state, you should be aware of delays in the application process due […]
Mental Health Counselors and Psychotherapists: Simple Rules for Keeping Your License and Avoiding Complaints
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I represent many mental health counselors, social workers, psychologists, and professional counselors, defending them on complaints being investigated against their professional licenses. Many complaints and investigations arise because the therapist has strayed over the line and crossed the […]
Top 5 Reasons Professional Counselors and Psychotherapists Receive Complaints Against Their Licenses; What to Do to Prevent It
By Michelle E. Missigman, J.D., Attorney, The Health Law Firm What is a Licensure Complaint? A licensure complaint against a professional counselor, mental health counselor, or other psychotherapist is usually initiated by the filing of a complaint with the professional board or other regulatory authority. Although some states authorize the licensing board to investigate and […]
COVID-19 Burn Out Causing More Resident Physicians to Unionize, Part 2
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law This is part two of a blog series focusing on the effects of COVID burnout in healthcare professionals. Don’t forget to read part one. The Problem With Residents’ Working Conditions Existed Long Before the Pandemic. It’s common for […]
16 Tips For Health Professionals to Avoid Sexual Harassment Complaints & Allegations
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Throughout my decades of representing health care professionals, I have seen cases where an economic competitor of a physician generated false sexual harassment complaints to eliminate competition. I have seen cases where an ex-employee invented false allegations of […]
COVID-19 Burn Out Causing More Resident Physicians to Unionize, Part 1
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law This is part one in a blog series focusing on the effects of COVID burnout in healthcare professionals. Be sure to check back for part two. As you know, residents are new physicians who have recently finished medical […]
How to Find a Lawyer Who Accepts HPSO Insurance to Defend Healthcare Providers
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Healthcare professionals such as pharmacists, licensed mental health counselors, advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs), and massage therapists often struggle to find experienced lawyers in Florida who will accept their professional liability insurance after receiving complaints from the Department […]
Resident Physicians and Fellows: No, it Is Not Alright to Hug or Touch Others! Important Lessons Regarding Boundaries in the Workplace
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I am writing to break the news to many of you: No, it is not appropriate to touch any of your co-workers in the workplace, nor to hug them, nor to give them back-rubs or massages, nor to […]
HHS Announces Voluntary Resolution Agreement With University Of Southern California Medical School to Settle Sex Discrimination Complaints
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On June 15, 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office for Civil Rights (OCR), and the University of Southern California (USC), along with its medical enterprise, Keck Medicine of USC (KMUSC), entered into a […]
Protecting Your Pharmacist License: Locate an HPSO or Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Attorney to Defend You in a Complaint
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law All healthcare professionals, including pharmacists and pharmacies, should know the importance of good professional liability insurance. These policies protect them from the financial burden of legal expenses in case of any complaints or lawsuits filed against them. Healthcare […]
Mental Health Counselors: Follow These Rules To Prevent Complaints and Keep Your Professional License
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Licensed mental health counselors, psychologists, and other mental health care professionals are potential targets of licensure complaints from clients in any practice setting. Many legal situations and cases arise because the therapist has strayed over the line and […]
Finding a Lawyer Who Accepts NORCAL Insurance to Defend Your License
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Many nurses, nurse practitioners, and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) carry professional malpractice insurance through NORCAL Mutual Insurance or one of the other similar insurance companies. This insurance is inexpensive and provides excellent coverage. What you may not […]
Finding a Lawyer Who Accepts HPSO Insurance to Defend Healthcare Providers
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Healthcare professionals such as pharmacists, licensed mental health counselors, advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs), and massage therapists often struggle to find experienced lawyers in Florida who will accept their professional liability insurance after receiving complaints from the Department […]
Miami, Florida Man Gets 15 Years in Prison for HIV Drug Fraud Scheme; $230 Million Lost to Fraud
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On June 15, 2023, a United States District Judge sentenced a Florida man to 15 years in prison for his role in an HIV prescription drug fraud scheme that amassed more than $230 million in two years. The […]
Iowa Appellate Court Reverses $6 Million Nursing Home Negligence Decision Because of Hearsay Testimony
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A, LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law and Hartley Brooks, Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm On June 21, 2023, the Court of Appeals of Iowa overturned the verdict in a nursing home negligence case that awarded $6 million in compensation and damages to the […]
Medications and Other Substances that Mimic Prohibited Drugs on Urinalysis Drug Tests: Marijuana and THC Imposter Substances (Part 3 of Series)
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law and Hartley Brooks, Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm When representing licensed health professionals, our firm often encounters issues regarding positive drug tests that employers request. These clients include nurses, pharmacists, dental professionals, mental health counselors, therapists, etc. […]
Substances and Medications that Mimic Prohibited Drugs on Urinalysis Drug Tests: Pot and THC Imposter Substances (Part 3 of Series)
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law and Hartley Brooks, Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm When representing licensed health professionals, our firm often encounters issues regarding positive drug tests that employers request. These clients include nurses, pharmacists, dental professionals, mental health counselors, therapists, etc. […]
Nurses: You Must Insure Your Legal Protection
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I have news for you: You need professional liability insurance! But you only need the kind that includes professional liability insurance coverage and in the amount of $25,000 or more. Are you a traveling nurse? Are you a […]
Florida Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for HIV Drug Fraud Scheme; $230 Million Lost to Fraud
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On June 15, 2023, a United States District Judge sentenced a Florida man to 15 years in prison for his role in an HIV prescription drug fraud scheme that amassed more than $230 million in two years. The […]
Former Harvard Med School Morgue Director Allegedly Sold Body Parts, Class Action Alleges
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In a morbid but extremely popular class action lawsuit filed on June 16, 2023, illegal body parts sales was alleged. The lawsuit against Harvard University contained allegations that its morgue manager was selling body parts from 350-400 donated […]
United States Court of Appeals Denies U.S. Nursing Corporations Indemnification Challenge Against Nurse Staffing Agency
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law, and Hartley Brooks, Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm On May 18, 2023, the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit affirmed a U.S. district court’s decision to deny U.S. Nursing Corporation a new trial. The […]
Harvard May Fight Liability Claims for Morgue Manager’s Sale of Cadaver Body Parts
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law, and Hartley Brooks, Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm To read the indictment, click here. On June 14, 2023, the previous Harvard morgue manager, his wife, and three others were indicted on charges of conspiracy and interstate transport […]
Study Reveals 1 in 5 Medicare Recipients Use Medical Marijuana, 66% Agree It Should Be Covered
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law A new study has revealed that one in five Medicare recipients use medical marijuana and two-thirds think Medicare should cover it. MedicarePlans.com, a group examining various Medicare issues, commissioned the online poll of 1,250 Medicare recipients in April […]
Harvard Med School Morgue Director Allegedly Sold Body Parts, Class Action Alleges
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In a morbid but extremely popular class action lawsuit filed on June 16, 2023, illegal body parts sales was alleged. The lawsuit against Harvard University contained allegations that its morgue manager was selling body parts from 350-400 donated […]
State Nursing Boards Delay Nursing Licenses Across the U.S. Even As COVID-19 Pandemic Continues
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Staffing shortages at hospitals across the U.S. are worsening helped along by state boards and other licensing authorities taking months to process nursing licenses, a recent NPR survey claims. As a result, thousands of new nurses who want […]
Florida Man Gets 15 Years in Prison for HIV Drug Fraud Scheme; $230 Million Lost to Fraud
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On June 15, 2023, a United States District Judge sentenced a Florida man to 15 years in prison for his role in an HIV prescription drug fraud scheme that amassed more than $230 million in two years. The […]
Medications and Substances that Mimic Prohibited Drugs on Urinalysis Drug Tests (Part 1 of a Blog Series)
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In representing nurses and other licensed health professionals, we constantly discuss positive drug screenings, usually from employer-ordered drug testing, with our clients. These clients include nurses, pharmacists, dental professionals, mental health counselors, therapists, etc. Often these individuals need […]
From the archives: Mississippi Becomes 37th State to Legalize Medical Marijuana
Previously published on March 24, 2022By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On February 2, 2022, the Gov. of Mississippi signed the “Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act” legalizing medical marijuana in the state. The law permits the use of medical cannabis to treat certain debilitating medical […]
Florida Surgeon Gets 7 Years for Committing $28 Million in Health Care Fraud
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On November 18, 2021, a Tallahassee surgeon was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for committing health care fraud, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The scheme involved performing hundreds of medically unnecessary, […]
Medications and Other Substances that Mimic Prohibited Drugs on Urinalysis Drug Tests (Part 1 of a Blog Series)
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In representing nurses and other licensed health professionals, we constantly discuss positive drug screenings, usually from employer-ordered drug testing, with our clients. These clients include nurses, pharmacists, dental professionals, mental health counselors, therapists, etc. Often these individuals need […]
Medications and Substances that Mimic Prohibited Drugs on Urinalysis Drug Tests (Part 1)
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In representing nurses and other licensed health professionals, we constantly discuss positive drug screenings, usually from employer-ordered drug testing, with our clients. These clients include nurses, pharmacists, dental professionals, mental health counselors, therapists, etc. Often these individuals need […]
Medicare Revocation and the Collateral Damage It Can Cause Health Care Providers
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Many healthcare professionals are unaware of the adverse long-term collateral effects of Medicare revocation or exclusion on their careers and future employment. However, if you are a physician, dentist, nurse, mental health counselor, psychologist, pharmacist, physician assistant, nurse […]
Don’t Get Labeled as a “Problem Resident” for Disputes With Your Medical Education Program: Prepare to Identify and Address Problems
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law A resident physician has a tough life while working to become specialized in a medical specialty, especially in the more complex ones. Try to make it less complicated instead of more complicated. Residents are In Two Different Positions: […]
Have You Been Recommended to an Impaired Practitioner Program? What You Need to Know if You’ve Been Accused
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others, physicians and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can sometimes […]
Are You Applying for a Nursing or Health Professional License? Read Our Helpful Tips First!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The process of obtaining a nursing or health professional license can be challenging and time-consuming. When seeking initial licensure or applying for a license in another state, you should be aware of delays in the application process due […]
Counselors and Psychotherapists: Simple Rules for Keeping Your License and Avoiding Complaints
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I represent many mental health counselors, social workers, psychologists, and professional counselors, defending them on complaints being investigated against their professional licenses. Many complaints and investigations arise because the therapist has strayed over the line and crossed the […]
Mental Health Counselors and Psychotherapists: Follow These Simple Rules for Keeping Your License and Avoiding Complaints
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I represent many mental health counselors, social workers, psychologists, and professional counselors, defending them on complaints being investigated against their professional licenses. Many complaints and investigations arise because the therapist has strayed over the line and crossed the […]
Impaired Practitioner Programs: What You Need to Know if You’ve Been Accused
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others physicians and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can sometimes […]
Psychologists and Health Professional License Applications: Do’s & Don’ts
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The process of obtaining a medical or health professional license can be challenging and time-consuming. When seeking initial licensure or applying for a license in another state, you should be aware of delays in the application process due […]
Eight Tips For Academic, Disciplinary or Legal Problems with Your Residency Program
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Here are some tips to set the record straight on various inaccurate information I have heard from physicians in medical residency programs in representing them in appeals of disciplinary actions including suspension and terminations. 1. Nothing you tell […]
Accused of Impairment or Misconduct? Here’s What You Should Do Next!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others, physicians and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can sometimes […]
Impaired Practitioner Programs: What Happens if You’ve Been Accused?
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others, physicians and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can sometimes […]
New Policy Changes to USMLE Exams and How They Impact Medical Students, Graduates
By Achal A. Aggarwal, J.D. The United States Medical Licensing Examination (“USMLE”) is a three-step examination required to obtain a medical license. It is written and administered by the USMLE Secretariat of the National Board of Medical Examiners (“NBME”) and is sponsored by the Federation of State Medical Boards (“FSMB”) and the USMLE. Medical students […]
Simple Rules for Keeping Your License and Avoiding Complaints for Counselors and Psychotherapists
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law I represent many mental health counselors, social workers, psychologists, and professional counselors, defending them on complaints being investigated against their professional licenses. Many complaints and investigations arise because the therapist has strayed over the line and crossed the […]
Are You Applying for a Massage Therapist or Health Professional License? Follow Our Tips
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The process of obtaining a massage therapist or health professional license can be challenging and time-consuming. When seeking initial licensure or applying for a license in another state, you should be aware of delays in the application process […]
You’ve Been Instructed to Report Yourself to an Impaired Practitioners Program, Here’s What You Should Do Next!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others, dentists, physicians, and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can […]
Eight Legal Tips If You Are Having Academic, Disciplinary or Legal Problems with Your Residency Program
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Here are some tips to set the record straight on various inaccurate information I have heard from physicians in medical residency programs in representing them in appeals of disciplinary actions including suspension and terminations. 1. Nothing you tell […]
You’ve Been Accused of Impairment or Misconduct, What Happens Now?
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others, physicians and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can sometimes […]
Are You Applying for a Medical or Health Professional License? Follow Our Helpful Tips
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The process of obtaining a medical or health professional license can be challenging and time-consuming. When seeking initial licensure or applying for a license in another state, you should be aware of delays in the application process due […]
Legal Tips If You Are Having Academic, Disciplinary or Legal Problems with Your Residency Program
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Here are some tips to set the record straight on various inaccurate information I have heard from physicians in medical residency programs in representing them in appeals of disciplinary actions including suspension and terminations. 1. Nothing you tell […]
Cheating, Irregular Behavior and Other Challenges Facing Medical Students and Graduates
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The road to becoming a physician is paved with many unique challenges. The long, exhausting journey begins and students are faced with the first battle: rigorous undergraduate course work, followed by the MCAT and medical school applications. During […]
Impaired Practitioner Programs: What To Do if You’ve Been Accused?
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law In an industry that revolves around helping others, physicians and other health professionals sometimes find that they are the ones being pushed toward a treatment program. Long hours, heavy workloads, and stress among health care professionals can sometimes […]
Florida Department of Health Claims Orchid Nursery Has No Constitutional Protection In Pot Licenses
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On August 27, 2020, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) argued to the United States Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals that a Florida nursery can’t claim the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects its right to marijuana […]
Florida Defends Medical Pot Law in High-Stakes State Supreme Court Battle
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On May 6, 2020, in a highly-important case for the medical marijuana industry in Florida, the state defended its regulatory framework before the Florida supreme court. The case focuses on whether Florida has properly carried out a 2016 […]
Women Who Posed as Nurse Sentenced to Prison For Health Care Fraud, Identity Theft, and Wire Fraud
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On September 23, 2020, a Tennessee woman who posed as a nurse working at several medical facilities was sentenced to more than four years in prison. In December 2019, she pled guilty to wire fraud, healthcare fraud, identity […]
Veterans Want Federal Court To Reconsider DEA Marijuana Classification
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On October 1, 2020, military veterans urged the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) restrictive marijuana classification. The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) said in an amicus curiae […]
Eight Tips If You Are Having Academic, Disciplinary or Legal Problems with Your Residency Program
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law Here are some tips to set the record straight on various inaccurate information I have heard from physicians in medical residency programs in representing them in appeals of disciplinary actions including suspension and terminations. 1. Nothing you tell […]
Going For an Evaluation With Your State Providers Health Program, Peer Assistance Program, Intervention Project for Nurses, or Professionals Resource Network? Tips on What NOT To Do!
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law So you are a physician, nurse or other health professional who has been accused of drug diversion, alcohol use at work, being impaired because of use of drugs or alcohol, or being positive on a drug test. You […]
Veterans Urge Federal Court To Reconsider DEA Marijuana Classification
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On October 1, 2020, military veterans urged the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) restrictive marijuana classification. The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) said in an amicus curiae […]
What Foreign Medical Graduates Need to Know Before Transferring Medical Schools
By Achal A. Aggarwal, M.B.A., J.D., and George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law When medical school graduates who graduated from a medical school outside of the United States want to practice medicine in the United States, they register with the Educational Commission for Foreign […]
Woman Posing as Nurse For Six Years Sentenced to Prison For Health Care Fraud, Identity Theft, and Wire Fraud
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On September 23, 2020, a Tennessee woman who posed as a nurse working at several medical facilities was sentenced to more than four years in prison. In December 2019, she pled guilty to wire fraud, healthcare fraud, […]
House Committee Advances Medical Marijuana Bill to Expand Research
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On September 9, 2020, a U.S. House of Representatives committee advanced a bill to expand access to marijuana for research purposes. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce voted unanimously by voice vote in favor of HR 3797, […]
How to Find the Right Attorney for Your Irregular Behavior Case Before the USMLE or ECFMG
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law If you have received a letter from the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Secretariat or the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) accusing you of “irregular behavior,” this is very serious stuff. You need an experienced […]
Significant Changes to USMLE Exams and What They Mean for Medical Students and Graduates
By Achal A. Aggarwal, M.B.A., J.D., and George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law The United States Medical Licensing Examination (“USMLE”) is a three-step examination required to obtain a medical license. It is written and administered by the USMLE Secretariat of the National Board of Medical […]
Major Florida Oncology Group Pays $100 Million to Settle Antitrust Charges
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On April 30, 2020, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that a major Florida oncology group will pay $100 million to resolve a criminal charge that it conspired with competitors to divvy up cancer treatments in the […]
UF Rescinds Prospect For Racist Online Post
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On June 8, 2020, the University of Florida (UF) reportedly announced via Twitter that it had rescinded its offer of acceptance to a prospective student. The offer was rescinded by the university because of an allegedly racist message […]
Florida Oncology Group Agrees to Pay $100 Million in Antitrust Probe
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On April 30, 2020, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that a major Florida oncology group will pay $100 million to resolve a criminal charge that it conspired with competitors to divvy up cancer treatments in the […]
Florida Defends Medical Marijuana Law in High-Stakes State Supreme Court Battle
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On May 6, 2020, in a highly-important case for the medical marijuana industry in Florida, the state defended its regulatory framework before the Florida supreme court. The case focuses on whether Florida has properly carried out a 2016 […]
University of Florida Rescinds Prospect Due to Racist Social Media Post
By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law On June 8, 2020, the University of Florida (UF) reportedly announced via Twitter that it had rescinded its offer of acceptance to a prospective student. The offer was rescinded by the university because of an allegedly racist message […]