Veterinarians
The veterinary practice in the state of Texas is regulated by the Veterinary Licensing Act (Texas Occupations Code Chapter 801) enforced by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Pursuant to § 801.402, the Veterinary Board may discipline a veterinarian for:
-
Addiction or chemical dependency
-
Engaging in dishonest, fraudulent or illegal practice of veterinary medicine
-
Conviction of a felony offense
-
Performing or prescribing unnecessary or unauthorized treatment
-
Committing gross malpractice or a pattern of negligent malpractice
-
Knowingly failing to report a disease to the Texas Animal Health Commission (Texas Occupations Code § 801.403)
-
Failing to maintain § 801.539 records (Texas Occupations Code § 801.401).
The State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners may reprimand, monitor, place on probation, or suspend or revoke the veterinarian’s license, Texas Occupations Code § 801.401.
The disciplinary process begins with a complaint and investigation administered in accordance with Subchapter E of the Veterinary License Act. If the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners has a reasonable belief that a violation has occurred, the Board may informally resolve the case through Informal Proceedings pursuant to Texas Occupations Code § 801.408. If the informal conference does not result in a resolution of the case, the veterinarian is entitled to an Administrative Hearing before a SOAH under § 801.407 of the Veterinarian’s Licensing Act. |