Can a registrant be disciplined for failing to treat a patient according to accepted standards?

A registrant can indeed be disciplined for failing to treat a patient according to accepted standards. This principle is grounded in the professional and ethical obligations that healthcare providers have towards their patients. Medical professionals are expected to adhere to established standards of care that reflect the knowledge, skills, and medical practices widely accepted within the healthcare community. When a provider does not meet these standards, it can lead to inadequate patient care, which may result in harm or adverse outcomes for the patient.

This discipline can occur regardless of whether a patient formally complains, as regulatory bodies often take proactive steps to ensure the safety and quality of healthcare. Authorities can investigate cases where standards may not have been followed based on reports from other healthcare professionals, quality assurance reviews, or other investigative avenues, prior to any patient complaint. Thus, the focus is on maintaining the integrity of care rather than waiting for patients to voice their concerns.

Since there are clear expectations for the standard of care, and since this standard exists independently of patient feedback, the option stating that a registrant can be disciplined for failing to treat a patient according to accepted standards is accurate. This is fundamental to maintaining trust in the healthcare system and ensuring that all patients receive safe and effective treatment.