What Happens When You File a Complaint Against a Doctor in Ontario?
Doctors in Ontario are regulated professionals, which means they must follow strict rules and standards in their practice. If a patient or someone else believes a doctor has acted inappropriately, they can file a complaint with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)—the body responsible for overseeing doctors in the province.
Filing a complaint can feel overwhelming, so this post will walk you through the complaint and investigation process in simple terms.
Step 1: Filing a Complaint
Anyone can file a complaint against a doctor: a patient, a family member, another health-care provider, or even a concerned member of the public. The most common complaints include:
- Concerns about medical care – Patients may feel they were misdiagnosed, given improper treatment, or did not receive adequate care
- Issues involving a family member’s care – Relatives may question whether their loved one received proper medical attention
- Allegations of inappropriate behavior – This includes sexual abuse or inappropriate touching by a physician
There is no cost to file a complaint, and there is no time limit—a complaint can be made months or even years after an incident.
To begin, the complaint must be submitted in writing to the CPSO. Once received, the CPSO officially begins the process by notifying the doctor and opening an investigation.
Step 2: The Investigation
Once a complaint is filed, the CPSO appoints an investigator to gather relevant information. The investigation typically includes:
- Notifying the doctor – The doctor is formally told about the complaint and is given a chance to respond
- Collecting evidence – The investigator may review medical records, speak with witnesses, and gather other relevant documents
- Doctor’s response – The doctor has the opportunity to explain their side of the story
- Report submission – The investigator prepares a report for the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC)—the CPSO committee responsible for reviewing complaints
The ICRC reviews all the evidence and then decides on the next steps. Their decision can include:
- No further action – If they find no wrongdoing, the case is closed
- A resolution – This could include additional training for the doctor or a formal caution
- Escalation to a hearing – In serious cases, the matter is referred to a disciplinary panel for a formal hearing, which can result in penalties like suspensions or revocation of the doctor’s license
In some cases, undercover investigators may be used, especially if misconduct is suspected.
Final Thoughts
Filing a complaint against a doctor is a serious step but it’s an important way to ensure accountability in health-care. While not all complaints lead to disciplinary action, the process ensures that concerns are properly reviewed and investigated.
If you or someone you know is considering filing a complaint, it’s important to gather as much information as possible and be prepared for the investigation process.
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