Pharmacists in North Carolina play a critical role in protecting patient health and privacy. Because their job involves so much discretion, expertise, and attention to detail, the NC Board of Pharmacy holds licensees to some of the most rigorous professional and ethical standards in healthcare.
If you are a pharmacist who has been notified of a complaint, you may feel blindsided, but your next steps are crucial. A Board investigation can jeopardize your license, your livelihood, and your professional reputation. Learn more about the Board’s process for investigating complaints to preserve your rights and protect your career.
Complaints to the NC Board of Pharmacy may come from patients, employers, insurance companies, or even other healthcare professionals. Some of the most common issues include:
Even when an error is accidental or administrative in nature, the Board may still pursue disciplinary action.
Once a complaint is received, the NC Board of Pharmacy begins by reviewing the allegations and determining whether an investigation is necessary. Unless the complaint is found to be frivolous at face value, the Board will seek out additional information to make its determination.
When you are notified of the complaint, you will likely be asked to submit a formal statement sharing your perspective on the allegations. The Board may also use this time to gather documentation (such as patient records and pharmacy logs), conduct interviews, and refer matters out to law enforcement if a crime has been alleged.
If the Board decides to proceed with an investigation, you will be formally questioned and asked to submit evidence that supports your point of view. From there, the Board may elect to dismiss your complaint or impose disciplinary measures such as fines, probation, suspension, or even the permanent revocation of your license.
When faced with a complaint, you may feel the urge to respond quickly to explain or justify what happened. However, acting without sound legal advice can create problems for pharmacists.
Accidental misstatements or incomplete explanations may haunt you later if the Board decides to pursue a formal investigation. Further, if any criminal allegations are in play, your statements could impact a parallel investigation.
Having a professional license defense attorney review the allegations and help prepare your response is your best strategy for avoiding a stressful investigation — or, should you face one — ensuring your rights are protected from the very beginning.
Don’t let news of a complaint send you into a panic, but proceed with the preservation of your pharmacy license and good professional standing in mind
Unlike some other professions, losing your pharmacy license doesn’t just mean changing jobs — it can cut off nearly every career path in your field. A disciplinary record can impact your DEA registration, insurance credentialing, and future employability, so treat complaints with due seriousness.
Early action can make the difference between a manageable outcome and a career-ending sanction.
If you’re facing a complaint from the NC Board of Pharmacy, you don’t have to go through the process alone.
At Landon White Law, we help pharmacists protect their professional licenses, reputations, and futures. Contact us today to discuss your situation before you respond to the Board.
