Statement from Donald Patrick, M.D., J.D.,
Executive Director, Texas
Honored Alumnus of Texas A&I Rushes to Respond to Public Citizen
2002 Press Releases
July 2, 2002
State Board of Medical Examiners regarding Public Citizen's Questionable Doctors Project Statement from Donald Patrick, M.D., J.D., Executive Director, Texas
We congratulate Public Citizen on their efforts to aid consumers in making informed decisions about their health care provider through their new Questionable Doctors web site. Consumers often must choose a physician from a list of unfamiliar providers designated by their health plan, increasing the importance of diligent regulation and comprehensive physician information.
TSBME provides free to the consumer information including education, board certification, and disciplinary history of physicians, physician assistants, and acupuncturists licensed in Texas via our license verification system. This information is updated daily and reflects current licensure status and full disciplinary history.
Consumers may access the website for the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners at www.tsbme.state.tx.us. There is a link on the main page to License Verifications. Or, they may call the TSBME hotline at 800-248-4062 toll-free from inside Texas or 512-305-7030 from outside the state. The full text of disciplinary orders against a physician is available to consumers by making a written request to TSBME. The agency is currently working to make the text of orders available online before the end of the year. In addition, Texas physicians are required to report consumer information, which is published in a physician profile. The profile information is largely self-reported and provides information regarding hospital privileges, language translation services, physical accessibility, and honors and awards in addition to the agency's data regarding licensure status and disciplinary history.
Profiles are currently under development and all physicians licensed in Texas should have a profile available by Nov. 1. Physician profiles can be accessed via the agency website under the "What's New?" link on the main page. The TSBME Board is aggressively seeking new ways to better protect the public and efficiently serve its customers. The agency has recently reorganized and improved processes in all areas. The Board, under the leadership of President Lee Anderson, M.D., will seek additional funding in the next legislative session to further its ability to fulfill its mission to protect the public welfare.
For more information, call Jill Wiggins, Public Information Director, at (512) 305-7018 or write to: Texas State Board of Medical Examiners MC 251 P.O. Box 2018 Austin, TX 78768-2018
To receive press releases by e-mail: jill.wiggins@tsbme.state.tx.us
Updated: Wednesday, November 13, 2002