How to File a Complaint About a Doctor

Filing a complaint against a doctor is a very serious decision to make. If a doctor's negligent actions or decisions caused harm, danger or death to you or someone you care about, then a complaint to the medical board in your state may be necessary. State boards take allegations very seriously and thoroughly investigate to protect the public from future incidences. Contacting the medical board in your state and filling out the complaint form with supporting documentation is what is required to get the process started.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact the medical board from the state in which you live; this information can be obtained online or in a phone book. For example, California's board is called The Medical Board of California and Florida's is called the Florida Department of Health. The board will provide a complaint form that can be mailed or downloaded for you to fill out.

• 2

  Gather the doctor's information that you are filing the complaint against. You will need the doctor's name, address, phone number and license number. The more information that is provided, the easier it is for the board to review the case.

• 3

  Fill out the form. Provide as many details as possible as to why you want the doctor investigated. Give who, what, where, when, why and how in your complaint. Send copies of any information you have that can support your statements.

• 4

  Sign the authorization release form attached to the complaint. This allows the board to request medical records and talk to doctor about the complaint. If you wish to remain anonymous, do not sign the release, and let the board know in writing.

• 5

  Make a copy of the complaint and all supporting documentation for your records. Mail all information to the address provided.