The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – South Georgia (PCOM-South Georgia) is keen on training physicians who are dedicated to providing quality patient care and who understand that learning does not end at graduation. With such high expectations of their students, it is no wonder PCOM-South Georgia is competitive – there are only so many slots for the top of the class. Some students may find it hard to thrive in an environment like that and end up acting inappropriately. If you or someone you love is behaving similarly and has been referred for disciplinary action or a dismissal hearing, an attorney-advisor can help you navigate those proceedings. Call our offices today to schedule a consultation.
Academic and Professional Conduct for Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – South Georgia Campus
Like most schools in the United States, PCOM-South Georgia gives their students a handbook each year which contains the academic and professional responsibilities they expect their students to follow. When a student violates these rules, they are punished according to certain policies and procedures. The conduct rules at PCOM-South Georgia include:
- Acting considerate and respectful with patients, faculty, hospital staff, and peers
- Protecting patient privacy
- Sustaining acceptable grades
- Evaluating and embracing scientific evidence in their patient care
- Encouraging their interpersonal and communication skills to grow
- Recognizing when a patient requires urgent care
- Receiving informed consent for tests and procedures from patients or their guardians
- Creating enduring learning habits
If a student ignores these rules, their file will be sent to the Student Progress & Evaluation Committee (SPEC). SPEC oversees student dismissals, remediation plans, and disciplinary actions. They will determine the next steps for the student and whether or not their place in the program should be preserved.
Remediation at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – South Georgia Campus
All students learn differently. Some do much better in a clinical, hands-on setting, while others do better learning from an instructor in the classroom. Because of this, PCOM-South Georgia has created remediation programs so that struggling students have the opportunity to retake an exam, clinical, or exam. At the end of each year, SPEC reviews students' records to decide who is progressing in the program. If they see a student is having a hard time keeping up with their assignments or are failing exams, they will suggest a remediation program. Moreover, if a student fails to pass more than ten pre-clerkship credits in the first or second year, they may have to repeat the entire year.
After the student successfully remediates the course, exam, or clinical, they can pick back up where they left off in the program. Though, if they can't remediate successfully, SPEC will refer them for dismissal. Therefore, fighting for a remediation plan, if one is not offered outright, is exceedingly important. An attorney-advisor can help make sure the school offers you the opportunity to complete one.
Dismissal Procedures for Medical Students at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – South Georgia Campus
Medical students are learning how to navigate holding life in their hands. As such, they are held to higher standards than other graduate students in other professions. At PCOM-South Georgia, students are supposed to obtain both academic information and become competent professionals. SPEC will refer students for dismissal for a number of reasons, including:
- Unable to pass ten or more pre-clerkship course credits in the first or second year or two clerkships during their fourth year
- Academic misconduct: like cheating, plagiarism, fabrication
- Title IX violations or another type of sexual misconduct
After SPEC determines that a dismissal hearing is appropriate, they will organize a meeting with the student and allow them to present their side of the story, with facts and evidence to back it up. SPEC will then go back over the student's evidence to decide whether the student should be dismissed. If you have found yourself notified of a dismissal proceeding, working with an attorney from the moment you learn of these proceedings will ensure you receive the best defense you possibly can.
Appeal a Decision at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – South Georgia Campus
After SPEC makes their determination, they will inform the student. Ordinarily, you have to make your appeal quickly – generally, between 5 and 10 days after getting the decision notification. The decision letter will list specific instructions for how to appeal, but usually, they must be made for specific reasons, like:
- A conflict of interest or bias between the student and SPEC
- Sanctions enforced were too severe and should be amended given the nature of the allegation
- There is new evidence available now that was not available before that will change the outcome of the case
An unbiased committee will review the appeal and determine if the SPEC ruling should be upheld, struck down, or modified in some way. Remember, if filing an appeal sounds overwhelming or scary, let our attorneys help. Appeals are very important - they are your last chance to prove your side of the story and ensure your dream of becoming a doctor does not change.
Working With an Attorney-Advisor
Osteopathic medical school breeds competition and stress. Students are expected to meet high expectations, and when they can't, they may feel like their only option is to behave in a way they normally wouldn't. You shouldn't have to worry about these types of situations and what might happen in the future, but punishments like suspension and dismissal will follow you. For instance, if you apply to a fellowship or to a new osteopathic medical school to continue your education, you will have to explain the incident on your applications and in your interviews. Attorneys at the LLF Law Firm have the experience and fighting nature to ensure you the best possible outcome. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.
