The institution that is today known as Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia (DUCOM) was officially named in 2002. The school's origin extends more than 100 years to the Hahnemann Medical College and the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania. The mission of the institution stated as involving a commitment to educating and delivering excellent care is a community focused on diversity and collaboration.
Today's premier medical colleges and universities require students that are admitted to successfully maintain high academic standards. The majority also places significant emphasis on exhibiting professionalism when interacting with patients, staff, and others in the community. Those who fail to meet the requirements for academic success and professional conduct are subject to remediation and potential dismissal. Medical students that may potentially face disciplinary action should promptly speak with an attorney-adviser.
Common Breaches of Standards for Professionalism
- Misrepresenting or inaccurately documenting actions and reports
- Exhibiting extreme defensiveness to objective assessments or constructive criticism
- Lacking compassion or respect for others
DUCOM now has a Director of Professionalism Curriculum and a four-year program known as the Professional Formation Curriculum. The program educates students regarding the values and responsibilities of those practicing medicine and emphasizes compassion and humanism.
Those who witness a potential ethics violation are to notify a course director, an Honor Court Representative, or the Dean of Students. If warranted, the violation is then reported to the President of the Honor Court.
Dismissal
The administration separates potential violations of unprofessional conduct as either being “moderate” or “high” levels of concern. Very severe breaches of conduct, professionalism, or academic integrity are grounds for dismissal. In most cases, dismissal is reserved for those students with persistent violations, such as having prior written reprimands, being placed on probation or having been suspended.
Breaches of professional conduct are addressed by the Professionalism Advisory Board (PAB), a group of senior administrators. In some cases, the Senior Associate Dean may impose a temporary suspension as the disciplinary judicial process is completed and a decision is made regarding possible dismissal.
Remediation
Those students who are unable to meet the required level of academic performance are subject to remediation. Medical schools continue to reassess and redevelop their practices for student academic remediation. Many educational administrators stress the importance of correcting deficiencies early in the medical school program is critical to ensure the competency of future physicians. Students may only repeat up to a total of two courses at Drexel.
Experienced Attorney Provides Advisory Support and Assistance for Medical Students
Integrity and professionalism are two fundamental characteristics expected among those pursuing a career in medicine. Students with adverse information in their records or transcripts resulting from violations of conduct or other disciplinary sanctions are at a large disadvantage. These students are likely to have limited options in residency programs, employment opportunities, and may have reduced long-term earning potential.
Leaders at institutions often place tremendous emphasis on promptly resolving student disciplinary actions. Sometimes, overworked disciplinary administrators may rush to judgment without properly acknowledging a student's right to due process. The attorneys at LLF Law firm have a good understanding of the consequences and has helped countless medical students with such concerns. Contact the LLF Law Firm at (888) 535-3686 today for help.
