The New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners takes complaints against physicians practicing in the state very seriously and investigates them thoroughly. Patients, family members, healthcare professionals or concerned citizens can file these complaints. Let us explore further the investigation process and what it entails.
Who files a complaint and how
Complainants submit their concerns online through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website. The board requires detailed information about the incident, including dates, locations, and specific allegations.
Formal complaints against healthcare professionals, like physicians or nurses, often trigger investigations by respective medical boards. In New Jersey, the Board of Medical Examiners manages complaints against physicians, while the Board of Nursing addresses complaints about nurses.
How does the investigation process start?
Once the board receives the complaint, it begins its investigation. This comprises reviewing the details, gathering evidence, and possibly interviewing witnesses or the involved parties. The board investigates various accusations, such as concerns about patient safety, improper medical practices, fraud, substance abuse, negligence and unprofessional conduct.
For example, a colleague may report a physician who has demonstrated gross incompetence and poses an imminent danger to patients or the public. Patients may also file complaints about healthcare facilities or practitioners who have failed to provide proper care or engaged in unprofessional behavior.
The board aims to determine whether the complaint has merit and whether the physician’s actions violated professional standards or regulations. If necessary, the board may take different courses, such as issuing a warning, imposing restrictions or fines, or even suspending a physician’s license.
Facing a medical board investigation is a serious matter. Seeking legal counsel is advisable if you find yourself under such scrutiny. A healthcare law attorney can help you prepare for interviews with the board and strategize a defense to protect your medical license and reputation.
Issuing a complaint is relatively easy; for that reason, physicians and other healthcare professionals must know their rights and responsibilities. Even if they are too busy caring for patients, they should know what might spark a complaint, how, and what the consequences might be.