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The Arizona Board of Physical Therapy (“Board”) administers all investigations and complaints regarding licensed physical therapists and certified physical therapist assistants in Arizona. The Board imposes disciplinary action if they determine that a violation has occurred. The Board has issued a list of Frequently Asked Questions that sheds some light on the complaint process. An investigation by the Board is initiated when; 1) a complaint is filed, 2) self-reporting, and 3) when an organization is required by law to report a possible violation to the Board. The Board’s Complaint Review Process can be broken down into:
1. Filing a Complaint
2. Investigation
3. Board Review
4. Disciplinary Action
This post will examine the first stage of the complaint process; Filing a Complaint. A general time-line for the filing a complaint stage is as follows:
1. A complaint is filed.
2. The Board staff determines if jurisdiction exists and, if so, establishes a complaint number and a file is opened.
3. A copy of the complaint is sent to the professional.
4. The Board requests a written response from the professional within 30 days.
5. The Board may issue a subpoena to the professional requesting relevant records.
Prior to responding to the complaint it is imperative that the physical therapist seek legal counsel. Submitting a well-reasoned, persuasive response can sometimes be the difference between having the complaint dismissed versus being found to have committed an act of unprofessional conduct. The next stage in the Arizona Board of Physical Therapy complaint process is Investigation.
If you have a question about an Arizona Board of Physical Therapy complaint contact Attorney Robert Chelle.
