Health Practitioner Discipline
Professional Discipline for Health Practitioners
Facing a disciplinary process can be daunting when your registration and professional reputation are on the line. If you are in this position Dr Roderick Mulgan can bring a rare blend of medical and legal expertise to guide you through a stressful and technical process.
Roderick’s background as both a practising doctor and experienced lawyer means he understands the realities of clinical work as well as its legal and regulatory framework. This insight helps him prepare persuasive responses, challenge allegations where appropriate, and advocate for proportionate outcomes.
He advises from the earliest stage — when a charge or Professional Conduct Committee referral first arrives — through to resolution discussions, pre-hearing conferences, and full Health Practitioners’ Disciplinary Tribunal hearings. His focus is always on clear strategy, calm representation, and minimising the impact on your ability to practise.
Roderick can assist nurses and pharmacists and practitioners with disciplinary charges brought by any of the following authorities recognised by Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003:
- Chinese Medicine Council of New Zealand
- Chiropractic Board
- Dental Council
- Dietitians Board
- Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand
- Medical Radiation Technologists Board
- Midwifery Council
- Nursing Council of New Zealand
- Occupational Therapy Board
- Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board
- Osteopathic Council
- Paramedic Council
- Pharmacy Council
- Physiotherapy Board
- Podiatrists Board
- Psychologists Board
- Psychotherapists Board.
NB: Roderick’s work is limited to complaints with professional registration bodies. He does not take on Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) complaints or employment disputes.
Further, he serves as a member of the Medical Council, and so is unable to represent doctors facing professional disciplinary action.
Testimonials
Health practitioner discipline
When I was facing one of the darkest and most challenging seasons of my life, Roderick stepped in as more than just a lawyer. He became a true hero. His compassion, integrity, and dedication are rare qualities in today’s world.
Throughout the process, he was not only my legal counsel but also a mentor. He took the time to guide me, share life lessons, and even checked in on me after the case to ensure I was on the right path forward. At a time when I felt lost and hopeless, he stood firmly by my side, helping me secure permanent name suppression and allowing me to continue practising.
Because of his support, I found hope again. Roderick is not just an exceptional lawyer and professional, but also a true role model. I will forever be grateful for his unwavering kindness, wisdom, and commitment.
PS (pharmacist)
HEALTH PRACTITIONER DISCIPLINE
Thank you Roderick for providing your best in my case. You have made a huge impact in the direction of my career and I couldn’t thank you enough for it. You have been utterly kind, generous and very professional in your uptake of my legal proceedings. I would definitely recommend any healthcare professionals to benefit from your expertise in the area of both medicine and law. It’s been a great pleasure meeting and working along side with you!