Introduction to MCHK’s Complaint Investigation and Disciplinary Inquiry Mechanism

Someone may lodge a complaint to the Medical Council, involving professional misconduct with one's doctor. This session explains what will be done to investigate a complaint against the doctor. It is hoped that the information contained in this section will foster a better understanding of the Medical Council's role in dealing with complaints.

Legal powers of the Medical Council

• MCHK can investigate any complaint relating to professional misconduct.
• MCHK can take action.

Complaints Against Doctors

Pre-PIC

• How will your complaint be dealt with?
• Will the doctor be informed as soon as you make a complaint?

PIC

• What happens if the Medical Council decides not to investigate the complaint?
• What happens if the Medical Council decides to take action?
• What if the Preliminary Investigation Committee ("PIC") recommends an inquiry?

Inquiry

• If your complaint is upheld, what will be the outcome?
• Disciplinary powers of inquiry panel (MRO Cap 161, Section 21)
• warning letter
• reprimand
• name of the registered medical practitioner to be removed from the General Register
• name of the registered medical practitioner to be removed from the Specialist Register
• refer the case to the Health Committee etc.

Dr. Pierre Chan