The New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine was founded in 1841 and is now a leading medical school. The School strives to ensure that all students uphold the standards and have respect for the medical profession. The Code of Student Conduct contains all policies and expectations related to ethics, professional responsibility, and many other core values.
Aside from rigid standards for academic performance that are often subject to remediation, each institution maintains guidelines for professionalism and academic integrity. Medical students must take appropriate actions to mitigate risks of being unable to access preferred residency programs and employment opportunities if the disciplinary matters are unresolved. It is crucial to retain an experienced attorney-adviser that understands the process and will protect your rights to due process and best interests while working toward a favorable resolution.
Professionalism
The institution views the study of medicine to be “not a purely intellectual exercise.” Students are expected to demonstrate professionalism physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. Some of the goals for student professionalism are as follows:
- Being compassionate and respectful to others
- Placing the needs of the patient ahead of personal interests
- Being accountable
- Acknowledging that patients have a right to be autonomous and a right to privacy
NYU explains some of the acts that may constitute professional misconduct. These include acts that may breach confidentiality, performing beyond your scope of competency, or “gross incompetence or negligence.” Students that demonstrate a lack of professionalism may be summoned before a hearing panel.
Dismissal
When a medical student has sanctions imposed, the adverse information remains on their student record as a disciplinary action, which may impede your future progress. Students that are suspended or dismissed may appeal a ruling. This must be done in writing within seven days. The only acceptable grounds are that the proceedings were erroneous or that the evidence “taken as a whole” appears contrary to the findings.
Remediation
One essential element in medical education is remediation. These are remedies or corrective processes for improving student performance and ensuring that all students are qualified for the healthcare profession. At NYU, students that are experiencing academic difficulty will first receive guidance and support from an Associate Dean for Student Affairs.
Remedial activity may include retaking modules or repeating a course or term. The Pre-clinical or Clinical Boards have responsibility for assessing the best course of action for students failing to meet academic standards, which can result in remediation, suspension, or dismissal.
Effective Advisory Attorney for Medical Students
Medical school students have a great deal at stake when subjected to disciplinary proceedings that may involve failing to meet academic standards, unprofessional conduct, academic integrity concerns, and more. The medical field maintains high standards for personal integrity. The best course of action for students is to promptly seek assistance from an experienced attorney-adviser.
Retaining seasoned advisory representation ensures the school's specific disciplinary provisions are properly interpreted and that you are afforded rights of due process. Joseph D. Lento is an attorney that understands the potentially adverse repercussions and will support your best interests. Contact the office today at (888) 535-3686 for information.
