The University of Virginia School of Medicine (UVA SoM) is a public graduate medical school established in 1819 in Charlottesville, Virginia. The medical school has the distinction of being established by Thomas Jefferson and is one of the oldest in the country. UVA SoM is part of the University of Virginia complex, offering the Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Because it is closely associated with the University of Virginia Health System and the Inova Health System, graduates from this medical school can expect a vibrant professional future replete with growth opportunities. But to remain enrolled at this prestigious medical school and benefit from its programs, you must demonstrate exemplary behavior, ethics, professionalism, and academic progress. Failure to do so leads to issues such as dismissal, with catastrophic impacts on your progress and reputation.
Being a medical student is no easy feat – and getting into a medical school as competitive as UVA SoM solidifies your place in the healthcare field. But medical school is notoriously tricky, with immense pressure to succeed and keep up with your program requirements. Some students may partake in activities that get them into trouble to get ahead. However, regardless of the violation or whether it was a lapse in judgment or a mistake, you still deserve a chance to defend yourself against allegations that can upend your future. With so much at stake, you need the experience of the team at the Lento Law Firm, who can help guide you through the process.
Common Reasons for Dismissal
Dismissal from medical school is a big deal, mainly due to improper behavior or lack of progress. Medical schools have a reputation to maintain and want to attract the best students for their programs. They have strict rules and guidelines to maintain order and equity for all students to level the playing field. Some of the most common reasons for dismissal from medical school include lack of academic progress, repeated violations, lack of professionalism, or one severe violation. Since there are multiple reasons why medical schools may dismiss students, the best course of action is to call the Lento Law Firm if you receive word of an alleged violation. The quicker you act, the higher the likelihood of a favorable case outcome.
Adjudication Process at UVA SoM
According to the Medical Student Handbook at UVA SoM, any person who suspects a medical student committed a violation, mistreated, or lacked professionalism must submit a report to the Office of Educational Affairs. Medical students may also report unacceptable behavior through the OASIS portal, which goes to the Office of Educational Affairs. They forward the complaint to the Assistant Dean for Medical Education, who determines whether the issue falls under the department's jurisdiction. The report goes to the student's System Leader, Clerkship Director, or the Curriculum Committee for academic issues.
The Office of Educational Affairs decides how to respond to the report and may ask for the initiation of an investigation to determine the next steps. Those with multiple allegations of misconduct may receive a review by the School of Medicine Dean and the Dean's Cabinet for immediate intervention. If the alleged violation requires a hearing, the student must attend a trial composed of a panel overseen by the Judiciary Committee. After the committee reviews the case details, they may impose one or more of the following sanctions: admonition, a warning, a reprimand, disciplinary probation, restitution, suspension, suspension held in abeyance, or expulsion. If a student receives an expulsion, it is for a permanent or indefinite time, but the student will know as the committee states it in the order of expulsion.
Appeals
Students may appeal the committee's decision by writing to the Judicial Review Board. However, the Vice President and the Chief of Student Affairs Officer or designee reexamine the Judiciary Committee's rulings after every hearing regardless of the student's desire for an appeal, and have the option to make one of the following decisions:
- To send the decision back to the Judiciary Committee for a re-evaluation or second hearing, explaining why they believe they need further action
- Bypass the Committee and send their decision to the Judiciary Review Board
If you are facing a hearing, call the Lento Law Firm. The team will help you navigate this process, reviewing the case details and helping you identify discrepancies or actions that go against the standard procedures used to resolve cases like yours. Their experience and passion for justice help decrease the likelihood of receiving a sanction that negatively affects your future.
Hiring an Attorney
Being part of a medical school as prestigious as UVA SoM is an exciting time in your life, but it also comes with challenges if you face accusations of misconduct, academic issues, or lack of professionalism. Regardless of the violation, it would be best never to approach these cases alone. Instead, call the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm when you have nowhere to turn. The team at the Lento Law Firm has years of experience helping medical students facing dismissal nationwide. With their knowledge, know-how, and dedication to their clients, they are your shoulder when you feel that all is lost.
The Lento Law Firm team is by your side, even if you may not have an advisor present during the hearing. Whether they are working upfront with you or behind the scenes, they know how to approach each case with care and attention to detail, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.
You worked hard and faced multiple challenges to get into UVA SoM. A lapse in judgment, mistake, or genuine lack of knowledge about a policy should not be why you can no longer become a doctor.
Every minute counts if you or someone you love faces allegations of academic issues, lack of professionalism, or ethical violations. Call the Lento Law Firm team today at 888-535-3686 for more information about how to approach your case.
