What are the Possible Outcomes of a Board of Nursing Investigation?Feb. 14, 2023
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
The first question my clients have when they are notified of a Minnesota Board of Nursing investigation into their practice is, "Am I going to lose my license?" It's important to know that revocation of a license is just one possible (and rare) outcome, and only comes up in the most extreme circumstances. So, […] Read More »
Should I Hire a Nursing License Lawyer if I am Under Investigation by the Minnesota Board of Nursing?Jan. 31, 2023
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
I can't tell you how many times I have been asked this question by prospective clients who call for a consultation after they have been notified by the Minnesota Board of Nursing that their nursing license is under investigation. When you receive allegations from your licensing board, it can be scary, confusing, stressful and create feelings of uncertainty about your future, both professionally and financially. Hiring […] Read More »
Keep Identity Thieves at Bay: Protect Your Social Security Number and Accounts Where You Spend MoneyJan. 19, 2023
Identity theft, a concept that wouldnt even have made sense thirty years ago, is now one of the most pernicious and damaging offenses were at risk for every day, and because its substantially perpetrated over the Internet, the threats come from every corner of the globe. By focusing on key areas of vulnerability and taking steps to minimize your risk, you can increase your chances to avoid the hassle of recovering […] Read More »
How Long Will it Take to Get Compensated for Injuries Sustained in a Car Crash?Jan. 3, 2023
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
One of the most challenging things for someone who has been injured in a car crash due to the fault of another is the time it takes to get compensation from the at-fault party. Often times, my clients are not only suffering physically from an injury, but they are also missing work and incurring numerous expenses. As an accident victim, it is important you do your best […] Read More »
What Do I Do if the Department of Human Services is Investigating Me for Maltreatment or Neglect?Dec. 27, 2022
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
Your licensing board is not the only Minnesota agency that may become involved in your practice. The Department of Human Services (DHS) is charged with investigating individuals in direct-contact professions who may have harmed a vulnerable person. As licensed medical professionals or others that work with vulnerable adults or children, you are likely a mandated reporter and must alert DHS of any instances of […] Read More »
Biking Safely in WinterNov. 17, 2022
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
As winter approaches and the snow begins to blanket the familiar streets, city bicycle commuters must be even more vigilant for their safety as roadways can be slippery and visibility limited. During winter weather conditions, it is more important than ever to bike defensively on city streets. Motorists may be less likely to spot bikers during snow […] Read More »
What Can I Expect If I Report to the Health Professionals Services Program (HPSP)?Nov. 1, 2022
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
When I am contacted by a licensed professional who is having issues with their employer or their board surrounding mental health or chemical dependency, the Health Professionals Services Program (HPSP) will always come up in our first conversation.
The Health Professionals Services Program was put in place over two decades ago to protect Minnesota citizens by providing confidential monitoring for health care workers who have […] Read More »
3 Tips for Dealing With a Complaint Against Your PracticeOct. 18, 2022
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
Learning that a complaint has been filed against your practice is a nerve-wracking experience for any licensed professional. The news typically comes in the form of a letter from your Board and sometimes gives you little or no information about the nature of the complaint. Most licensed professionals who reach out to our office feel panicked, or even ashamed to be the subject of a […] Read More »
What Can I Do When Nurse Staffing Shortages Result in Patient Care Concerns?Oct. 4, 2022
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
For nearly ten years I have been representing Minnesota nurses, including RNs, LPNs, and CNAs, who describe their work environments as hectic, under-staffed, and poorly supervised. Too frequently this is how nurses describe their work environments at our Minnesota nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. You nurses have a demanding job, both physically and emotionally. I appreciate your work and want to be sure […] Read More »
Distracted Driving is Still a Huge ProblemSep. 7, 2022
By Melissa Heinlein, Esq.
We have spoken in the past about how Minnesota has passed a "hands-free" cell phone bill that would prevent anyone who is operating a vehicle from accessing their phones or other electronic devices without the use of a "hands-free" adaptor such as Bluetooth. It goes without saying that we should all remain diligent about avoiding being distracted while driving. Distracted driving not only puts yourself […] Read More »