The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TBVME) licenses and regulates professionals in Texas. These agencies ensure that optometrists comply with state and federal rules and laws that govern their profession. As a result, disciplinary proceedings may result if someone alleges you have violated a rule or law related to your profession. A veterinarian license defense attorney can help if you are facing disciplinary proceedings. The following are Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the TBVME and its disciplinary process for veterinarians.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TBVME)?
- What are some grounds for disciplinary action against veterinarians?
- How does the TBVME handle complaints about veterinarians?
- What are the possible outcomes of a TBVME investigation?
- What is an informal conference?
- What is an agreed order?
- Do I get a hearing in a TBVME disciplinary proceeding?
- What kind of sanctions can I face in a TBVME disciplinary proceeding?
What is the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TBVME)?
The TBVME is a state agency dedicated to protecting the public from substandard veterinary and equine dental care. The agency licenses veterinarians, holds them to ethical standards, investigates complaints, and pursues disciplinary actions when merited.
What are some grounds for disciplinary action against veterinarians?
Common grounds for disciplinary action include:
- Chronic intoxication or chemical dependency
- Dishonest or illegal practices
- Felony convictions
- Unnecessary or unauthorized treatments
- Prescribing drugs without a veterinarian-client-patient relationship
- Practicing without a license
- Violating rules of professional conduct
- Kickbacks, rebates, or bonuses for referrals
- Refusing TBVME inspections or requests
- Poor sanitation practices
- Gross malpractice, negligence, or incompetence
- Failure to meet child support, student loans, or continuing education requirements
How does the TBVME handle complaints about veterinarians?
All complaints are reviewed, prioritized by severity, and may be delegated to a staff committee including licensed veterinarians for expert evaluation. The veterinarian is notified and generally has 21 days to respond. An investigator collects evidence to support the complaint evaluation.
What are the possible outcomes of a TBVME investigation?
If no violation is found, the case is closed. If a violation is identified, TBVME may pursue disciplinary action, which can include an informal conference, an agreed order, or a formal hearing.
What is an informal conference?
An informal conference allows the veterinarian to present their case before a TBVME panel, which includes at least two licensed veterinarians if medical expertise is needed. The panel meets confidentially and may dismiss the case, issue an agreed order, or recommend further disciplinary action.
What is an agreed order?
An agreed order is a negotiated settlement between the veterinarian and TBVME after a violation is identified. TBVME approves, rejects, or amends the agreed order for final disposition.
Do I get a hearing in a TBVME disciplinary proceeding?
If an agreed order cannot be reached or is rejected, a contested hearing is held at the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). An administrative law judge (ALJ) handles the hearing, evaluates evidence, and issues a Proposal for Decision (PFD), which TBVME reviews to accept or reject.
What kind of sanctions can I face in a TBVME disciplinary proceeding?
Potential sanctions include:
- Reprimand
- Administrative penalty
- License suspension
- Probated license suspension
- License revocation
- Additional stipulations, such as participation in a peer assistance program or additional continuing education
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