Physicians .. have you read the rules?

The practice of medicine in Ohio is outlined by one statute section, Ohio Revised Code 4731, and one set of rules drafted by the Medical Board, Ohio Administrative Code 4731. This Code section and these rule outline the requirements to be licensed as a physician, podiatrist, massage therapist or physician’s assistant in Ohio and also define the scope of practice of medicine in Ohio. However, I am always surprised that most physicians with whom I speak have no idea that these laws and rules even exist.

Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4731 is the law governing the practice of medicine in Ohio. The Ohio Administrative Code is drafted by the Medical Board members and is reviewed and approved through a rule making process. Physicians in Ohio are required to know, understand and follow the guidelines established in these laws and rules.

These laws and rules can be found at the Medical Board’s website at: http://www.med.state.oh.us. You can also follow the following link to find these sections: http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/4731
or for the administrative rules go to: http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/4731

Pertinent sections of these laws and rules include:

Basis for disciplinary action can be found at R.C. 4731.22(B) which can be found at: http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/4731.22.

To learn more about licensing and continuing education go to: OAC 4731-10, which can be found at: http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/4731-10.

To learn more about prescribing of controlled substances go to: OAC 4731-11, which can be found at: http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/4731-11.

To learn more about the Medical Board’s hearing process go to: OAC 4731-13, which can be found at: http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/4731-13.

To learn more about the duty to report to the Medical Board go to: OAC 4731-15, which can be found at: http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/4731-15.

To learn more about what to do if you believe you suffer from  chemical dependency go to: OAC 4731-17, which can be found at:  http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/4731-17.

As practicing medical professionals in Ohio, you are required to know, understand and follow the laws  and rules in ORC 4731 and OAC 4731. Take the time to read the rules and, if you have questions, contact experienced legal counsel to assist you.

As always, if you have any questions about this post, please feel free to contact me at beth@collislaw.com.