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Mississippi Doctor Suspended for Inappropriate Patient Relationship

Abstract representation of healthcare ethics and professionalism.

News Summary

Dr. Clifton Story has been suspended for a year following accusations of an inappropriate relationship with a patient who was also a student. The State Board ruled his actions violated ethical standards, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in the healthcare field. Story admitted the relationship but acknowledged he underestimated the power dynamics involved. Alongside his suspension, he is required to undergo rehabilitation focusing on medical ethics and professionalism.

Mississippi Doctor Faces License Suspension Following Inappropriate Relationship with Patient

In the heart of Mississippi, a significant story has unfolded involving Dr. Clifton Story, who has had his medical license suspended for one year following serious allegations of misconduct. Dr. Story, once the executive director of Mississippi State University’s Longest Student Health Center, was found guilty of engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a patient who, coincidentally, was also a student at the university.

The Background of the Case

This incident came to light after a complaint was lodged with the State Board of Medical Licensure, raising concerns over professional misconduct. The allegations suggested that Dr. Story began his relationship with the student while he was still serving as her physician. This raised red flags about the ethical boundaries that exist in the doctor-patient dynamic, which are essential for maintaining trust and professionalism.

Hearing and Deliberations

During a hearing last November, board attorney Paul Barnes firmly stated that Dr. Story violated ethical standards due to the power imbalance inherent in the doctor-patient relationship. Despite claims from Story’s lawyer that the patient/physician relationship ended before any intimate involvement began, the board ultimately ruled in favor of the complaints against him.

Dr. Story, now 55, admitted to having the relationship but expressed that he didn’t properly consider the ethical implications at that time. He mentioned his intention to treat his patients as equals, although, in light of this situation, he came to recognize the significance of the power dynamics involved.

The Board’s Decision

The board concluded that Dr. Story’s actions were indeed unethical and violated state laws governing medical practice in Mississippi. Dr. Michelle Owens, the president of the board, emphasized the fundamental principle that all patients should be treated with respect, irrespective of their backgrounds or situations.

Story’s Professional Journey

Dr. Story served at Mississippi State University for nine years, leaving his position in April 2022. Afterward, he practiced at Starkville Medical Clinic until June 2024, when he transferred his focus to St. Dominic’s Madison Clinic. Despite his professional endeavors, this incident has made a significant impact on his career.

The Patient’s Treatment History

The patient in question first began seeing Dr. Story in 2015 for issues related to anxiety, stress, and ADHD. Their path crossed during a sports physical when she was about 17 or 18 years old. The relationship developed over time, with weekly appointments scheduled at Dr. Story’s request, some lasting well over an hour. These sessions often contained discussions about her personal life, indicating a shift from strictly professional matters.

Personal Events and Escalation

As the COVID-19 pandemic ramped up in 2020, Dr. Story’s life took a complex turn; his personal and professional life faced significant strains, including the mysterious death of his mother and separation from his wife. Despite these challenges, he asserted he began transitioning the patient’s care to other healthcare providers in 2020. Nonetheless, by late summer or early fall of that year, he became involved with the patient romantically, a fact he later testified to.

Aftermath and Future Steps

The sexual relationship persisted until the spring of 2023, with implications that differences in age and life stages contributed to its end. Following the board’s ruling, Dr. Story has been suspended from practicing medicine in Mississippi until November 2025. Once that time passes, he can submit a petition for reinstatement.

Alongside his suspension, Dr. Story has been mandated to undergo rehabilitation focused on medical ethics, professionalism, and boundary training. If he is successful in securing reinstatement, he will also be subject to ongoing monitoring for at least an additional year.

A Note of Responsibility

The Vice President for Strategic Communications at Mississippi State University has addressed the gravity of the allegations but has refrained from delving into specific details due to personnel matter protocols. The entire situation serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in the medical field and the responsibility healthcare providers have toward their patients.