The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UT Southwestern Medical) is a premier academic research institution located in Dallas. All students are required to exhibit personal and professional development based on the standards that are indicative of the medical profession such as integrity, patience, compassion, and reliability. The administration has compiled the requirements and expectations in the Medical Student Code of Professional Conduct.
Students pursuing a career in medicine are navigating a long journey. They are expected to achieve excellence in the classroom, in clinical settings, and beyond. Students that struggle to satisfy academic standards may be subject to remediation and those who breach the standards of professionalism may face disciplinary action.
Medical school students can ill afford to face sanctions such as suspension or dismissal. Having negative information on their disciplinary record creates a host of potential challenges that are likely to impede admission to another medical school, fewer residency options, and difficulty in seeking employment. It is essential to retain an experienced attorney to serve in an advisory role to protect your rights and work to achieve a favorable solution.
Professionalism
The administration at UT Southwestern Medical shares the beliefs of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) toward professionalism in the practice of medicine. This establishes professionalism as the “basis of medicine's contract with society.” Further, a physician is to prioritize patient interests and demonstrate superior competency and honesty.
Students who exhibit a deficiency in professionalism are subject to an evaluation of their appropriateness for the profession. In serious cases, a student may be referred to a Student Promotions Committee (SPC) for disciplinary measures. Initial actions may include entering a transcript notation indicating an unsatisfactory Medical Student Performance Evaluation or an Academic Warning. Students with multiple breaches in professionalism or particularly egregious violations may face probation or dismissal.
Dismissal
Efforts are made by the Associate Dean and SPC to remedy breaches or lapses in academic performance or professionalism. Those with very serious or persistent concerns are subject to dismissal from the institution. Students who wish to appeal an adverse ruling must notify the Chair within 10 days. A successful appeal must cite facts and contain adequate supporting documentation.
Remediation
Students in their first or second-year that fail to meet academic performance requirements will meet with an Associate Dean for Student Affairs. The student will be provided resources including counseling and an opportunity for remediation. This initial course of action will not result in any transcript notations. Subsequent course failures may result in a referral to SPC for further action.
Experience Advisory Representation for Medical School Students
Medical students typically have committed significant time and financial resources toward their goals. It is crucial to retain an experienced attorney-adviser that understands the process and will protect your rights and best interests while pursuing a favorable resolution.
In today's increasingly competitive educational environment, the leaders of prominent medical schools are cognizant of the importance of maintaining an untarnished reputation. This may result in additional pressure being placed on subordinates responsible for disciplinary matters, who may proceed haphazardly to resolve these matters quickly without properly considering the rights that all students are to be afforded. Attorney Joseph D. Lento has a firm understanding of the potential damage and consequences that can result in these actions. You are encouraged to contact the office today at (888) 535-3686 for information.
