Following a recent high-profile patient death at a medical spa, state medical boards across the country—particularly in New York—are intensifying investigations into aesthetic practices, IV therapy providers, weight loss clinics, and wellness centers.
At Lengea Law, we’ve seen a significant uptick in providers receiving letters, calls, or even unannounced visits from state boards and investigators. If you work in aesthetics, wellness, or medical weight loss, this is your heads-up: now is the time to get serious about compliance—and to know exactly what to do if the board comes knocking.
Why Are Investigations Increasing?
- A patient death tied to a cosmetic or IV procedure can prompt wide-scale scrutiny—even if your practice had nothing to do with it.
- Boards are under pressure to act swiftly and prevent further harm, often launching reviews of similar practices statewide.
- Social media marketing, off-label uses, and injectable/GLP-1 protocols are common triggers for deeper inquiry.
- States like New York, California, Texas, North Carolina and Florida are aggressively reviewing medical director arrangements, scope of practice violations, and improper supervision of RNs, NPs, PAs, and aestheticians.
If a Medical Board Investigator Contacts You — Do NOT Panic, But Do NOT Go It Alone
Here’s what to do immediately:
1. Stay Calm — But Don’t Talk Without Legal Counsel
Whether the contact comes via phone, email, letter, or an in-person visit, do not answer substantive questions on the spot.
Instead, say:
“I would be happy to respond through my legal counsel. Please send your inquiry in writing to my attorney at Lengea Law.”
2. Do Not Ignore or Delay
Even if the board’s letter looks informal or vague, take it seriously. You could have just 10 days to respond—or you could be exposing yourself to unnecessary risk by over-sharing.
3. Call or Text Lengea Immediately
We’ve represented hundreds of providers in board matters, from simple record requests to full investigations. We’ll tell you what to expect, what to say (and what not to), and how to protect your license and reputation.
Call or text: (646) 396-0804
Email: team@lengealaw.com
Common Issues Triggering Investigations
- Improper delegation of medical tasks (e.g., RNs doing Botox without a good faith exam being performed by an NP or PA prior)
- Fee-splitting or corporate practice violations (CPOM)
- Incorrect business setup for a medical business
- Inadequate documentation or consent forms
- Unlicensed individuals owning or operating a med spa
- Misuse or promotion of compounded medications (GLP-1s, peptides, IV therapies)
How to Be Proactive
- Review your supervision agreements and scope of practice protocols
- Make sure your consent forms, charting, and delegation are compliant
- Confirm your business structure avoids fee-splitting or CPOM issues
- Train your staff on what to say if an investigator shows up
- Schedule a legal audit with us—we can often spot red flags before regulators do
Final Thought
Investigations don’t only happen to “bad actors.”
They happen to good providers who weren’t prepared.
If you’re contacted by a state board, your first call should be to your lawyer—not the investigator.
We’re here to help you navigate this, protect your license, and stay in business.
Call or text us at (646) 396-0804
Email: team@lengealaw.com
Let’s stay compliant. Let’s stay protected. Let’s stay in control.