A San Diego physician agreed to an interim suspension order by the California Medical Board as reported by the San Diego Tribune in its article that was effective October 31, 2014. The physician admitted that he took photos and videos of female patients using the camera on his smart phone. The patients were unclothed in some of the photos. In addition, the patients alleged inappropriate touching or photographing. This interim suspension order will require the Medical Board to file an Accusation within 30 days but it appears there is also a criminal investigation as well.
Any physician who takes photos of patients whether clothed or not should be careful to obtain proper consent forms, use a camera for office use only where the photos will be HIPAA compliant and that there is a medical reason for the photos or videos.
Posted by Tracy Green, Esq.
