The University of Connecticut School of Medicine began enrolling students in 1968 with a mission focusing on “excellent care through research, education, and engagement.” The school expects its students to satisfy a plethora of expectations. This includes surpassing academic standards, acting with utmost professionalism, and upholding integrity. To help regulate these criteria, the Office of Academic Educational Affairs has developed an Academic Policies and Procedures Manual.
Most leading institutions accentuate high academic standards as well as professional conduct when dealing with patients, faculty members or anyone in the community regardless of their status. Medical students who do not adhere to professional conduct or fail to meet institutional academic standards are vulnerable to remediation efforts that could eventually result in dismissal. If an Institution’s disciplinary actions do lead to significant consequences such as suspension or expulsion, it is advisable that the student consults an attorney-advisor for proper guidance.
Professionalism against Common Lapses
Failure to respectfully engage with others
Misrepresenting records and reports
Getting defensive over constructive criticism

The University has set out clear expectations for behavior under its Code of Professionalism. Any instance of inappropriate behavior will be reported directly to the School of Medicine Incident Report Triage (PIRT). The PIRT committee will interrogate the person involved; hence a report will be prepared possibly for referral purposes to the Professionalism Review Board (PRB) for disciplinary measures.
Expulsion and Remediation
If following an investigative hearing, it is proven that a student committed substantial violations of either professionalism standards or Honor Code principles; they may serve sanctions such as suspension or expulsion from the institution based on evidentiary proof beyond reasonable doubts provided by clear and convincing evidence.
It is mandatory that all students maintain good standing academically before promotion or graduation. Failure to comply with academic norms places one under either an academic watchlist or warning list. An individual placed on academic warning must repeat an entire term if they don’t attain required academic thresholds.
Remediation strategies may involve one repeating a course instead of retaking the entire term depending on circumstances. Available remediation resources, both internal and external, allow students to drop out in exceptional cases. However, failing to achieve expected targets even with assistance can lead to expulsion from the institution.
Insights for Medical School Students
The ability to adhere to rules while acting professionally is an essential aspect of becoming a great physician. Maintaining consistent student behavior ensures that institutions are encouraged to maintain high academic standards as well as promote professionalism across campuses.
Students facing repercussions due to lack of integrity or commitment risk limiting their options for residency programs and future job opportunities. Therefore, it is in one’s best interest not to engage in inappropriate behavior which can lead to significant disciplinary measures such as suspension or dismissal.
Medical school administrators often have little time on their hands hence the need for attorney advisors who will ensure proper procedures before arriving at any conclusion. Todd.Spodek offers personalized advisory services through his offices reachable via (888) 535-3686 for more information on this complex process.

Table: Stages of Remediation and Disciplinary Actions

Common Lapses of Professionalism Table: