Not necessarily. A public reprimand is a form of discipline that a licensing board such as the Medical Board of California (MBC) may impose. While a public reprimand will appear on your license, it will not restrict your ability to practice as a doctor, nurse, or other professional.
For this reason, a public reprimand is often considered a favorable outcome, if it is not possible to have the complaint or Accusation dismissed entirely. Other forms of discipline, such as probation, suspension, and revocation, will either limit your ability to practice or prohibit you from working in your chosen profession entirely.
However, a public reprimand could affect your employment. Public Reprimands are published by the Board, via the Breeze DCA website. Additionally, if the allegations in a complaint are substantiated such that discipline is warranted, then-current or future employers may discharge you or refuse to hire you. For this reason, it is critical that you consult with a California healthcare license defense attorney as soon as possible after receiving notice of a complaint against you.