State of Arizona
Board of Homeopathic and Integrated Medicine Examiners

 

Search

 
          

Home

About the Board

Physicians

Medical Assistants

Complaints

Meetings, Agendas and Minutes

Rules

Statutes

Contact Us

Forms and Downloads

Board Members

Directory of Physicians

Directory Medical Assistants

 
Complaint Information

How do I file a complaint against a homeopathic and integrated medicine doctor?
The complaint must be submitted in writing to the board office.  Be as specific and objective as you can in narrating the events.  Mention dates, other persons involved, include copies of bills and any other communications your may have had with the physician that would assist the board in understanding the facts of the matter.

How does the Board process a complaint?
A copy of the complaint is sent to the physician with a request for a response within ten days of receipt of the complaint and copies of medical records and/or invoices if appropriate.  Arizona Medical Board (AMB)or the Osteopathic Board (OBEX) are notified if that physician is also licensed concurrently with that board.  Unless this Board hears otherwise from the AMB or OBEX, it assumes jurisdiction.  After the physician's reply is received additional investigation may be performed and once the initial information is complete the file is prepared for review by the Board.  Approximately ten days before the next scheduled meeting the complaint and the physician's response are forwarded to each of the Board members for review and recommendation at the next board meeting, of whether or not an investigation should be opened.

-If it is determined by the Board that a violation has not occurred, the complaint is dismissed and the complainant and the physician are notified-.

-If it is believed that a violation occurred, or the Board members believe further information is necessary, the physician may be called in for an either an investigative interview or an informal interview.  Based on the results of an investigative interview a physician may receive a Letter of Concern or the case may be dismissed or, if warranted the matter may be referred for the informal interview.

-Please note that the Board has the option of not conducting an investigative interview and may proceed immediately to the informal interview, or if circumstances warrant, prepare to conduct a hearing.  After an informal interview the board may do any of the following: dismiss the complaint, file a letter of concern, issue a decree of censure (considered an official action against the physician’s license) impose a period of probation or impose restrictions (including temporary suspension not to exceed twelve months) on the license.

-They may also choose to conduct a formal hearing.  The physician, who after a hearing, is found guilty of unprofessional conduct, or is found to be mentally or physically unable to engage safely in the practice of homeopathic medicine may be censured, placed on probation, or have the license suspended or revoked.  In all cases involving dual-licensed physicians, the appropriate board is notified of outcome.

When will my complaint be heard?
Complaints are reviewed and discussed by the board at the meeting after the full board receives the complaint package.  You will be notified of the date the matter will be placed on the agenda.  The Board meets six times per year on the second Tuesday of the month.