Overview of physicians subject to ethical proceedings in Paraíba, 2010–2020

Abstract

This study analyzes the profile of physicians reported to the Regional Medical Council of the State of
Paraíba and the outcomes of professional ethical proceedings conducted between 2010 and 2020. Based
on anonymized data provided by the regulatory authority, the following variables were analyzed using a
qualitative and quantitative approach: number of proceedings and convictions, type of sanction imposed,
physicians’ age group, years since graduation at the time of judgment, medical specialties, the presence
or absence of a complainant as the plaintiff in the proceedings, and the presence or absence of legal
counsel representing the physician. Most sanctioned physicians were men, with a normal distribution
regarding age and years since graduation, and without a registered medical specialty. Regarding the
conviction rate, only 20.51% of the physicians reported were ultimately found guilty, reinforcing
the regulatory authority’s cautious approach to avoiding frivolous or unwarranted convictions.