I am 25. Felony on record. What can I become in the medical field? ?
Asked by tianac23@sbcglobal.net
3.88 high school GPA. 1 year of GE in college. I read on the LVN/Nurse site that I cannot be a nurse because of the felony, but what CAN I be?

Best Answer:
Well what is the charge? I think that everyone gets a second chance, but I also heard the Board of Nursing is strict with these policies. I don't think you could become a nurse. I would highly suggest that you contact the Board of Nursing in your state and anonymously ask.

Ok, by the word you chose "felony" am i safe to assume you are american?? I dont know the laws there, but in canada you must get a pardon, and have your record sealed in order to pursue gainful employment never mind a career. I have been dealing with this myself for over 5yrs, it is a little dark raincloud that never goes away. Because you want to work with the public how it works is they do criminal background checks, once the red flag comes up...bam... the company cant hire you because of insurance purposes, they wont be covered if they hire someone with a record whether you are more than qualified or not this doesnt matter, trust me, it sucks. Mind you this is the way it is in Canada, the states?? not sure, so please check it out first as our laws are obviously different than yours. The only thing i can tell you is to immediately contact a company to get your pardon started so your record can be sealed. Until then, it will pop up and you wont be able to fulfil your career dream of being a nurse.
Answered by bcgirl

You can do medical work, but it IS extremely difficult. It is possible to get accepted into an MD/DO program with a felony conviction, depending on the weight of the crime. It is extremely important that you disclose your criminal record in detail on your applications, and be prepared to explain yourself in interviews. If you can sufficiently convince them that the past is behind you and you are ready to start clean, then they will overlook it in their considerations for admission. (Also remember to score well on your MCATs and get your volunteer work in, though this should be a given) The other problem, however, and one that can prove to be quite a bit tougher to overcome, is getting your DEA license to prescribe medications. As you can plainly see on the news tickers, these guys don't mess around with anyone, and they will give even newly-matriculated doctors no exception. Is your felony is drug-related (especially trafficking), they may very well deny you under any circumstance. All the advice I can give you is DON'T GIVE UP, many have come before you and succeeded. Be completely honest and express your willingness to play by the rules. Should you choose this path, good luck.
Answered by Dallas C