Deviance Among Physicians: Fraud, Violence, and the Power to Prescribe

The concept of deviance is complex, given that norms vary considerably across groups, times, and places. Society tends to primarily recognize traditional portraits of deviants such as street-offenders and drug addicts. The label deviant is commonly cast upon society’s undesirables, but this socially constructed image often overlooks subtler-and arguably more dangerous-deviance. Physician malfeasance is an especially problematic form, given that medical professionals garner trust, autonomy, and prestige from society, which allows them to operate outside of the public eye.

This book responds to a growing number of concerns regarding deviant physician actions such as physically and sexually abusive behaviors, fabricating medical findings and records, and taking advantage of patients (e.g., filing fraudulent Medicaid claims). It explores theoretical explanations for physician deviance, and goes on to consider potential responses such as Medicaid Fraud Control Units, the Questionable Doctors database, and the ability of doctors to police themselves.

The unique perspective offered in this book informs discussions of white-collar crime and deviance and has important implications for researchers, policymakers, and students involved in criminal justice and public policy.