Overview of State Medical Boards and Physician Complaints

A state can create regulatory agencies through the Tenth Amendment, under which they have the power to regulate medicine and other professions through professional licensing boards. These are known as state medical boards (SMB). Every state has an SMB. The state board licenses physicians, investigates complaints, disciplines physicians, and refers physicians for evaluation and rehabilitation. SMBs have the power to determine a physician’s fitness to practice medicine.  

In Michigan, the Bureau of Professional Licensing’s mission is to protect Michigan’s citizens and “relies on complaints from patients, citizens, and mandated reporters to begin investigations[.]” Patients can file a complaint against a physician or specialist by contacting their state’s SMB. Under Michigan’s procedures, a complainant must submit their contact information, the name of the person the complaint is against, a detailed description of the incident, and any reporting witnesses. Some states, like Ohio, allow anonymous reporting to encourage citizens to report these incidents. In other states, like Michigan, anonymous complaints are discouraged as the investigator may need to contact the complainant for further information. In such cases, the complainant's identity is confidential and may only be disclosed upon a written release.   

The SMB reviews the complaint and determines what complaints are pursued based on whether the Public Health Code was violated.  If the SMB determines they will pursue the complaint, they will investigate the incident, including interviews of parties and collection of evidence. 

Contact an Expert Attorney in Ann Arbor for Civil Litigation to Help You!

If you are considering filing a complaint against a physician, it may be beneficial to consult with a civil litigation attorney in Ann Arbor. A legal professional can advise you on your rights and help you navigate the complaint process.

For more information or to speak with us about your legal issue, please contact our attorneys in Ann Arbor at 734-665-4441. To learn more about Pear Sperling Eggan & Daniels, P.C., or any of our attorneys, please visit learn more about us here.