Nurses work hard to provide quality care to their patients. Sometimes, a patient, patient’s family member, or even a co-worker may disagree with the methods used and file a complaint with the state board. This can trigger an investigation and result in penalties such as a suspension or even revocation of a nursing license.
How will nurses know if they are under investigation by the state board?
The state board will generally send the nurse a letter to inform them of the impending investigation. Nurses are wise to review these mailings carefully as scammers are sending more fraudulent letters targeting nurses.
Is this really a concern?
Scammers are becoming more advanced in their methods and are targeting professionals such as nurses. In a recent example, the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) issued a warning about scammers who are sending falsified letters claiming the recipient’s nursing license is suspended in connection to allegations of illegal drug trafficking. The correspondence is convincing as it often includes the nurse’s license number. Red flags that help indicate the letter is a scam include:
- Aggressive threats.
- Demands of large sums of money as a “security bond” or other form of down payment.
- Threat of additional penalties if the nurse speaks out about the investigation or seeks counsel.
The BON encourages those who receive what appears to be a scam to report the correspondence to the Office of the Inspector General and contact the Office of Consumer Protection.
What will the BON include in their letters?
The BON will generally reach out through a mailing. These correspondences are most likely:
- Sent through certified and regular mail.
- Include name and contact information like an email or phone number of the assigned BON investigator.
If this information is missing, the letter may be a scam.
What should I do if I get a legit BON letter?
Those who are contacted by the BON about an impending investigation are wise to take action to protect themselves. You have rights during these investigations. An attorney experienced in this niche area of healthcare law can review the situation, discuss your rights, and advocate for a more favorable outcome.
Attorney John Rivas is responsible for this communication.