What is the TMB's role regarding physician-initiated closures of practice?

The Texas Medical Board (TMB) plays a critical role in ensuring the continuity of patient care when a physician initiates a closure of their practice. This responsibility emphasizes the importance of patient welfare and safety, which are paramount in the healthcare profession. When a physician decides to close their practice, proper guidance and oversight from the TMB are essential to facilitate a smooth transition for patients, ensuring they have access to necessary medical care without undue disruption.

The TMB provides resources and recommendations for physicians on how to handle this process, including notifying patients, managing their medical records, and ensuring that ongoing treatments are not interrupted. By doing so, the TMB upholds its mission to protect the public by maintaining standards in the medical field, which includes supporting the well-being of patients even in situations where their physician may no longer be available. This proactive approach helps safeguard patients' health needs and supports the ethical responsibilities of physicians in managing their practices responsibly.