Can I Work in the Medical Field with a Felony?
Contents
Introduction
The medical field is a highly esteemed and respected profession, dedicated to providing quality care and support to patients in need. However, for individuals who have a felony conviction on their record, the opportunity to work in this field may seem bleak. This article aims to provide clarity and guidance on the options available to individuals with a felony conviction who wish to pursue a career in the medical field.
Criminal Background Checks
One of the primary concerns for medical professionals and employers is the screening of potential employees’ criminal backgrounds. The Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) screens individuals for employment in facilities receiving Medicare and Medicaid funds, including hospitals, nursing homes, and hospices.
In 2016, the OIG issued a document, "Background Checks of Employee and Volunteers," outlining the requirements for criminal background checks. The document specified that individuals with a conviction for a crime that occurred during the previous 20 years may be excluded from working in facilities receiving HHS funds.
Types of Felonies and Their Impact
The types of felonies and the corresponding impact on an individual’s ability to work in the medical field vary depending on the specific circumstances.
• Non-violent felonies: Non-violent felonies, such as theft, fraud, or drug-related offenses, may not necessarily disqualify an individual from working in the medical field.
• Violent felonies: Violent felonies, such as murder, assault, or manslaughter, may be more restrictive, and an individual with a conviction for such crimes may face significant barriers to working in the medical field.
• Sexually based offenses: Sexually based offenses, such as sexual assault or child sexual abuse, may be explicitly excluded from employment in certain facilities or roles.
| Felony Type | Potential Impact on Medical Career |
|---|---|
| Non-violent felonies (theft, fraud, drug-related offenses) | Variable; may not necessarily disqualify from medical employment |
| Significant barriers; may require additional paperwork, interviews, or oversight | |
| Sexually based offenses | Explicitly excluded from certain facilities or roles |
State-Specific Considerations
Different states have varying regulations regarding the employment of individuals with felony convictions in the medical field. Some states, such as California and Colorado, have specific laws governing the employment of convicted felons in healthcare positions.
• California: In California, individuals with certain felony convictions may be disqualified from working in medical settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinical laboratories.
• Colorado: In Colorado, felons with non-violent offenses may be eligible to work in healthcare settings with additional screening and oversight.
| Felony Policies for Medical Employment | |
|---|---|
| California | Certain felony convictions disqualify from medical employment |
| Colorado | Non-violent felons may be eligible with additional screening |
Job Opportunities
While specific jobs may be restricted for individuals with felony convictions, there are still opportunities for individuals to work in the medical field. Some of these opportunities include:
• Medical billing and coding: Medical billing and coding involves processing patient data for insurance claims and medical coding.
• Medical scribe: Medical scribes work alongside healthcare providers to record patient data and documents.
• Medical researcher: Medical researchers work to advance medical knowledge and discover new treatments.
• Health education: Health education involves teaching patients and community members about healthy habits, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices.
Conclusion
While having a felony conviction can present challenges to working in the medical field, it is not always impossible. By understanding state-specific regulations, job opportunities, and the impact of certain felony convictions, individuals can work towards rebuilding their careers in the medical field.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals with a felony conviction to:
- Research state regulations: Understand the specific policies and regulations regarding felony employment in their state.
- Seek professional help: Consult with a rehabilitation specialist or career counselor to discuss job opportunities and employment strategies.
- Focus on job opportunities: Identify job opportunities that do not require direct patient interaction, such as medical billing, coding, or medical research.
- Be prepared for additional requirements: Be prepared to submit additional paperwork, undergo extensive background checks, or undergo psychological evaluations.
By taking a proactive approach and understanding the regulations and opportunities available, individuals with a felony conviction can work towards rebuilding their careers in the medical field and making a positive impact in the lives of patients and communities.
