To practice medicine in Texas, you need a valid medical license. It takes years of education to become a doctor and to earn the credentials to qualify for a medical license.
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, it takes anywhere from seven to 15 years to become a physician. Since it takes significant time and effort to become a doctor, there are steps you should take to protect your reputation and license to practice medicine.
Avoid negligent behavior
Patients expect their physicians to provide a certain standard of care. If you cannot maintain a proper level of care, your medical license could face revocation. Negligence that leads to license revocation can include general sloppiness, human error or oversight of important information.
Renew your license before it expires
Depending on state requirements, you likely need to renew your medical license every few years. Do not wait to renew your license until after the deadline arrives. If you do not renew your license before it expires, you could face penalties and fees.
Watch for medication violations
As a physician, you have the authority to prescribe prescription medication to your patients. Practice good judgment while prescribing and only prescribe medications that are necessary. When prescribing controlled substances, like opioids, take even more caution than usual.
Your patients and their families rely on you to provide fair and proper treatment while receiving medical care. By taking these proactive actions to protect your medical license, you could avoid allegations of improper conduct or negligence during your career.