Why Losing Your Medical License Means You're Not Allowed to Practice

Why Losing Your Medical License Means You're Not Allowed to Practice - Sharings from Dr. Nguyen Giap

A Piece of Paper – The Entire Career Journey

Many people mistakenly believe that having expertise alone is sufficient to practice in the medical field. However, a Medical License (CCHN) is not merely a piece of paper; it is an official recognition by law of one's competence, ethics, and professional responsibility.

Losing it means losing the right to practice. In a recent discussion, Dr. Nguyen Giap, who has over 15 years of experience in cosmetic surgery and has reviewed hundreds of CCHN applications, stated: “Once you lose your license, it’s as if you’ve left the profession, no matter how skilled you are.”

What is a Medical License and Why is it So Important?

According to the 2016 Pharmacy Law, a Medical License is a document issued by a competent state authority that allows individuals to practice medicine or pharmacy if they meet the necessary qualifications and legal requirements. It is akin to a specialized driver’s license but stricter, as it pertains to human health and life.

👉 Without a license, you cannot examine or treat patients, prescribe medications, or officially operate a medical facility – regardless of your expertise.

Read more about medical topics here:

1. What Does It Mean When a Hospital Doctor Has Their Medical License Revoked?
2. Distinguishing Medical Incidents from Medical Complications

Cases Leading to License Revocation – More Than Just Technical Errors

As per Article 28 of the 2016 Pharmacy Law, there are 11 cases that can lead to CCHN revocation. Some common scenarios include:

1. Falsifying documents when applying for a license.
2. Renting or lending your license to someone else.
3. Non-practicing continuously for 12 months.
4. Failing to update professional knowledge regularly.
5. Violating professional ethics, causing serious consequences.
6. Receiving administrative penalties for the same violation more than twice.

Dr. Nguyen Giap emphasizes:

“Many people underestimate the importance of regularly updating their knowledge or taking extended breaks. However, the law does not overlook this. Just 12 months without continuous practice leads to revocation.”

Why Can't You Practice if Your License is Revoked?

The reason is straightforward: you are no longer recognized by law as qualified to practice.

• You are not on the list of legally practicing professionals.
• Hospitals, pharmacies, and medical facilities cannot accept you.
• Any professional activity related to medicine or pharmacy conducted after revocation will be considered illegal and may result in severe penalties or criminal prosecution depending on the severity.

Absence from Practice for One Year: Is License Revocation Really Serious?

A common question from Ms. Yen Nhi (Vinh Long) is:

“I obtained my certificate and license two years ago but haven’t practiced. Will my license be revoked?”

The answer is YES, if you do not practice for 12 consecutive months..

The law is clear; you don’t need to commit a violation or cause serious consequences—just not practicing for the required duration automatically y leads to revocation.This is to ensure:

• Practitioners have continuous practical experience.
• Continuous knowledge and skills are kept up to date with modern medicine.
• The rights and safety of patients are protected.

Who Revokes Licenses? How is it Done?

The authority that issues the license (usually the Department of Health of the province/city or the Ministry of Health) handles the revocation process. The procedure includes:

• Issuing a revocation decision within five working days after a violation is discovered.
• Publishing the decision on the electronic information portal.
• Notifying relevant agencies nationwide.

According to Dr. Nguyen Giap, this can affect long-term practice records, and may complicate the process of applying for a new license if sufficient evidence of professional activity is not provided.

Sharing the Prestigious Degree of Dr. Giap

Insights from Dr. Nguyen Giap: “A License is Honor, Not a Business Permit”

As a cosmetic surgeon licensed since 2018, Dr. Tran Nguyen Giap shares:

“I have encountered cases where individuals, due to complacency, allowed their CCHN to be revoked. Some managed to reapply after nearly two years of proving their ongoing education. Others left the profession altogether, as they no longer met the qualifications.”

He also emphasizes:

“A medical license is proof of an individual’s training, ethics, and responsibility in the medical field. It should not be taken lightly or lent carelessly. Losing it means losing your professional status.”

Importantly: A Medical License is Not Just a Requirement – It’s a Commitment

The revocation of a medical license is not merely a form of punishment but a wake-up call about ethics, discipline, and the ongoing commitment required in the profession.

Therefore, if you hold a medical license, don’t see it as a right; rather, view it as a responsibility to yourself, your colleagues, and your patients.