In 1893, the Tufts University School of Medicine was originally opened as the Tufts College Medical School in Boston. In the many years since, the University has been a premier institution for educating professionals such as clinicians, scientists, and public health officials. The administration continues to maintain high expectations for students in the areas of social responsibility, personal conduct and professionalism, and compliance with academic standards.
Medical school students are held accountable for satisfying standards that reflect the profession's commitment to academic performance and professional behavior. Based on the potential risks, medical students faced with academic remediation or disciplinary measures of all kinds must act swiftly and appropriately. The issue should be discussed with family members and an attorney-adviser should be retained for critical guidance and support.
Examples of Deficiencies in Professionalism
- Failing to admit responsibility for shortcomings or errors, or reacting defensively to constructive criticism
- Not recognizing personal or professional limitations
- Demonstrating insensitivity for the feelings or needs of patients or peers
The Tufts University School of Medicine Standards of Conduct outlines the expectations for adherence to the Student Honor Code. The Student Ethics and Promotions Committee (SEPC) is responsible for addressing concerns related to ethical violations or instances of unprofessional conduct and conducts hearings when necessary. Students may be accompanied by a support person for hearings.
Dismissal
Suspension or dismissal from the university is generally sanctions that are employed in the event of persistent breaches of professionalism, very serious unethical activity, or for failures in remediation to address poor academic performance. Students that are dismissed from the institution as a result of a SEPC decision are always allowed to appeal.
Remediation
The Standards for Promotion is a compilation of academic requirements that students must satisfy along with the Technical Standards of TUSM, which are evaluated primarily in clinical environments. Students are expected to complete their M.D. program within six years. Each semester, the Assistant Dean for Student Enrollment/Registrar will notify any students who have failed to satisfy the standards for Satisfactory Academic Progress. These students are placed on a probationary academic period, deficiencies are identified, and remediation methods established.
Seasoned Attorney Provides Advisory Representation for Medical Students
Educational institutions understand how important it is for those pursuing a career in medicine to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Medical students in remediation must work diligently to raise their level of academic performance. In disciplinary matters, all efforts should be taken to maintain clean records and transcripts. Those with a background that shows a history of poor conduct or a lack of integrity are likely to experience difficulties in being admitted to another medical school and have limited residency and employment options.
Medical students have already devoted time and potentially vast financial resources to achieve their goals; therefore, a great deal is at stake when facing suspension or dismissal from an institution for violating standards of professional conduct. Having assistance from an advisory attorney is critical to ensure you are treated fairly and your best interests are protected. Contact the Lento Law Firm today for assistance at (888) 535-3686.
