Introduction to the Case
The Texas Medical Board has taken a significant step in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients by suspending a family medicine doctor in Austin. This decision was made after it was found that the physician had used medical appointments for sexual encounters with patients. The suspension of Dr. Jared Kealy’s medical license is a temporary measure, effective immediately, and was put in place due to the threat his actions posed to public welfare.
Details of the Suspension
The suspension was announced on September 3, and through his attorney, Dr. Kealy has denied all allegations made against him. Dr. Kealy was employed at an Austin location of Lone Star Circle of Care, a federally qualified health center that provides medical care to underserved communities, including uninsured and low-income patients. The health center’s primary focus is on offering comprehensive healthcare services to those who may not have access to them otherwise.
Allegations Against Dr. Kealy
According to the Texas Medical Board’s suspension announcement, Dr. Kealy initiated sexual relationships with two of his patients. Furthermore, he allegedly used scheduled medical encounters to engage in and continue sexual acts with these patients. These allegations are severe and highlight a significant breach of professional conduct and patient trust.
Response from Dr. Kealy and His Attorney
Dr. Kealy’s attorney, Louis Leichter of the Austin-based Leichter Law Firm, has rejected the allegations made against his client. Leichter stated that Dr. Kealy denies any sexual involvement with the two patients in question. The attorney also expressed concerns that Dr. Kealy was not given proper due process at his hearing before the board, suggesting that the decision to suspend his license may have been predetermined.
Statement from Lone Star Circle of Care
Lone Star Circle of Care has issued a statement regarding the situation, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its patients. The statement, provided by spokesperson Ashley Wild, notes that the organization takes allegations of professional misconduct very seriously. However, due to privacy concerns, they cannot comment on specific patient cases. It has been confirmed that Dr. Kealy has not provided medical services at Lone Star Circle of Care for some time and is no longer an employee of the organization.
Current Status of Dr. Kealy
As of the latest updates, Dr. Kealy is no longer listed on Lone Star Circle of Care’s website as a provider. An archived version of the website shows that he was listed as recently as July, indicating a relatively recent separation from the organization. The location where Dr. Kealy worked is also no longer listed on the website, suggesting that there may have been a restructuring or reevaluation of services provided by the health center.
Conclusion
The suspension of Dr. Jared Kealy’s medical license by the Texas Medical Board underscores the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and ensuring patient safety in healthcare settings. The allegations against Dr. Kealy are serious and demonstrate a clear violation of the trust placed in healthcare professionals. As the situation continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability within the medical community.
FAQs
Q: What was Dr. Jared Kealy accused of?
A: Dr. Kealy was accused of initiating sexual relationships with two of his patients and using scheduled medical encounters to engage in sexual acts with them.
Q: What action was taken against Dr. Kealy by the Texas Medical Board?
A: The Texas Medical Board temporarily suspended Dr. Kealy’s medical license, citing a threat to public welfare. The suspension was effective immediately.
Q: How has Dr. Kealy responded to the allegations?
A: Through his attorney, Dr. Kealy has denied all allegations made against him. His attorney also expressed concerns about the fairness of the hearing process.
Q: What is the current employment status of Dr. Kealy at Lone Star Circle of Care?
A: Dr. Kealy is no longer an employee of Lone Star Circle of Care and has not provided medical services there for some time.
Q: Why was Dr. Kealy’s license suspended?
A: Dr. Kealy’s license was suspended due to the allegations of professional misconduct and the threat his actions posed to public welfare.
