Thursday, March 24, 2011

File A Medical Complaint

You should file a complaint against health workers, if you are mistreated, to help protect other patients.








When you are attended by a physician or other health care worker, you expect to receive quality and professional care. There are times, however, when health care professionals fail to uphold this standard. If you feel you have not been provided adequate care from a health care worker, you should file a complaint with the state medical board to remedy carelessness, report fraud and speak out against unprofessional behavior. Filing a complaint may help protect future patients from similar problems.


Instructions


1. Find out what state board licenses the medical practitioner. If you are unsure of what state board to contact, call your state's medical board and ask the representative. If the board can't assist you, they should be able to provide the name and contact information for the correct board.


2. Contact the correct state board and request a complaint form. Many state boards also have the form available online.


3. Fill out the complaint form. Enter the full name and license number (if known) of the person you are complaining about. If you don't know the name or license number, contact the medical facility and request the information or look on your medical bill.


4. Describe the circumstances surrounding your complaint. Be as specific as possible in your report. If there are any witnesses, include the names and contact information for each witness.


5. Submit any supporting documentation. Proof could include copies of medical records, photographs, billing statements or proof of payment.








6. Sign the medical records release. This is a standard part of the form and is required to investigate the complaint.


7. Make sure to include the patient's name and any other personal information requested. Sign and date the form.


8. Submit the form and other required documents to the state board. An investigator will look into the complaint and the board will take disciplinary action at their discretion.

Tags: state board, health care, care worker, complaint form, contact information, file complaint