What penalties can the TMB impose on a medical licensee?

The Texas Medical Board (TMB) has the authority to impose a variety of penalties on medical licensees who violate laws or regulations governing medical practice. Among those penalties, suspension, revocation, or probation of a medical license stands out as significant measures that can directly impact a physician's ability to practice medicine.

Suspension is a temporary measure that indicates the licensee cannot practice for a specified period due to issues such as malpractice findings or ethical violations. Revocation is more severe, permanently removing the individual’s license to practice, effectively prohibiting them from working in the field. Probation may allow the physician to continue practicing under certain conditions, such as regular monitoring or fulfilling specific requirements set forth by the TMB.

Each of these actions reflects the Board's commitment to ensuring public safety and maintaining high standards within the medical profession. By promoting accountability among medical professionals, the TMB aims to protect patients and uphold trust in medical practice. While continuing education and other measures might be important for maintaining competency and addressing deficiencies, they do not carry the same weight or direct impact on a licensee's ability to practice as the more severe disciplinary actions listed.