Is there a statute of limitations that applies to the filing of Medical Board accusations for alleged misconduct by a physician?

Yes: Business and Professions Code section 2230.5 requires that any Medical Board accusation be filed within three (3) years after the Board discovers the act or omission that forms the grounds for discipline against a physician, or within seven (7) years after the alleged act or omission actually occurred (whichever occurs first. NOTE: there are a couple of exceptions to the general statute of limitations described above. An allegation that a physician (or Physician Assistant) procured his or her license by fraud or misrepresentation has no limitation. These limitations also do not apply where a physician deliberately conceals from the Board his or her unprofessional conduct, incompetence, or negligence. Where a minor is involved as a patient or victim, the statute of limitations will toll until the minor reaches adulthood. In addition, allegations of sexual misconduct by a physician must be filed within three (3) years of discovery by the Board or within ten (10) years of occurrence, whichever occurs first. Finally, where physician conduct results in a criminal investigation, the statute of limitations is tolled during the investigation if material evidence needed for the accusation is unavailable during that time.