The Medical Board of California held its Quarterly Board Meeting on November 21, 2024, where various topics concerning healthcare practices and regulations were discussed.

One significant point raised during the meeting involved the credibility of federally qualified health clinics. A board member expressed strong concerns about these clinics, particularly citing the Family Healthcare Centers of San Diego as an example of what they described as a "criminal enterprise." The member emphasized that the existence of such clinics does not guarantee quality or regulation, stating that they are "totally unregulated." This assertion was backed by claims of widespread billing fraud within these organizations.

Additionally, the discussion touched on the concept of informed consent in mental health care. The member argued that informed consent is a "total myth," suggesting that patients often have no real understanding or control over their treatment, particularly when it comes to psychiatric care. They highlighted the potential for individuals to be labeled as patients by practitioners they have never met, raising concerns about the integrity of mental health practices.

The meeting concluded with a call for greater scrutiny and regulation of healthcare organizations, particularly those operating under the federally qualified health clinic designation. The board acknowledged the need for ongoing discussions about the implications of these issues for patient care and safety.