Once a complaint is filed, the Department of Public Health will investigate the allegations by interviewing and getting any supporting documentation from the complainant and the respondent doctor. The Department may request consultants who practice the same type of medicine as the respondent to review the case. Some investigations take as a little as a few weeks to complete and others can take over a year, depending on their complexity and the availability of consultants. At the conclusion of the investigation, the case is either referred to the Legal Office to be prepared for a hearing or it is dismissed. The next step in the process is the Compliance Conference where a compliance letter is sent to the respondent and offers the respondent the opportunity to meet with the Department. The final step is either a settlement or a hearing on the matter.
This article is intended to be helpful and informative. But even common legal matters can become complex and stressful. A qualified health insurance lawyer can address your particular legal needs, explain the law, and represent you in court. Take the first step now and contact a local health insurance attorney to discuss your specific legal situation.