How Does a Substance Abuse Allegation Affect a Doctor’s License?

 Posted on December 16, 2025 in Professional License Defense

Substance abuse allegations can threaten everything a physician has worked to build. When the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) investigates these claims, your medical license, career, and reputation hang in the balance. Understanding how IDFPR evaluates substance abuse cases and how you should respond can make the difference between disciplinary action and protecting your right to practice. A Peoria, IL doctor license defense lawyer can guide you through this high-stakes process and help safeguard your professional future.

What Happens When a Doctor Is Accused of Substance Abuse in Illinois?

A complaint often begins the process. This may come from a patient, a coworker, or an employer. The IDFPR reviews the report and decides whether an investigation is needed. If they open a case, the doctor receives written notice that explains the general concerns.

Investigators may then request records, interviews, or workplace information. They follow the steps described in 225 ILCS 60, which gives the IDFPR the authority to look into claims about a doctor’s fitness to practice. The doctor has the right to respond. They can also present documents and seek legal guidance. An investigation does not mean that discipline will happen. It means the IDFPR needs more information before making a decision.

Can a Doctor Lose Their Medical License for Drug or Alcohol Use?

The IDFPR can take action if it finds that substance use affects a doctor’s ability to provide safe care. As of December 2025, under 225 ILCS 60/22, the Medical Board may restrict, suspend, or revoke a license. They may do this if there is evidence that a doctor cannot practice with reasonable judgment or skill.

Not every allegation leads to a loss of license. Some cases involve treatment plans or monitoring agreements. These plans allow a doctor to continue working under certain rules. The goal is to protect patients while giving doctors a fair chance to address concerns.

Doctors may also choose to enroll in treatment or monitoring programs on their own. This can sometimes reduce the level of discipline. It shows a commitment to safety and recovery.

What Evidence Can Lead to Discipline for Alleged Substance Use?

The IDFPR reviews many types of information before deciding on any action. Some examples include:

• Test results, workplace reports, or other documentation that raise concerns

• Records showing a pattern of missed work, safety issues, or errors

• Information from law enforcement or court cases

Investigators look closely at whether the evidence shows a possible risk to patients. The information must support the conclusion that the doctor’s ability to practice may be affected.

Can a Doctor Keep Practicing While Under Investigation for Substance Abuse?

In many cases, a doctor may continue working while the investigation is ongoing. The IDFPR only issues a summary suspension when it believes there is an immediate risk to patient safety. A summary suspension is an emergency order that stops a doctor from practicing right away. It stays in place until the case can be reviewed at a hearing.

Even without a suspension, an employer may place a doctor on leave during the investigation. Hospitals and clinics have their own policies. Because of this, outcomes can vary. Some doctors keep practicing with no restrictions. Others may have temporary limits, such as avoiding certain procedures or joining monitoring programs.

No matter the situation, clear communication and legal advice are important. Doctors benefit from understanding each step in the process and what information the IDFPR is reviewing.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Chicago, IL Doctor License Defense Attorney

At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc., our Peoria, IL doctor license defense lawyer brings a strong background in both pharmacy and legal matters, which is especially useful in cases involving medication handling or controlled substances. Attorney Joseph Bogdan has over 20 years of experience and often serves as an expert witness in pharmaceutical cases.

If you have received notice from the IDFPR or are worried about how an allegation may affect your license, call us at 630-310-1267 to schedule your free consultation today.