Your Rights as a Hospital Patient in New York State
Doctors or Physician Assistants
If you feel that you have received incompetent, negligent or fraudulent care from a doctor or physician assistant, you may file a report with the New York State Department of Health Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC). OPMC investigates all reports of possible professional misconduct by physicians and physician assistants. Reports must include the full name and address of the doctor or physician assistant and all relevant information and must be made in writing to:
New York State Department of HealthOffice of Professional Medical Conduct
Hedley Park Place, Suite 303
433 River Street
Troy, New York 12180-2299
For more information or to obtain a complaint form, call 1-800-663-6114 or visit the Department of Health website.
Reports are kept confidential. An investigation may result in a formal hearing before a committee of the Board for Professional Medical Conduct. The Board consists of physicans and consumer members appointed by the Commissioner of Health.
Examples of "medical misconduct" by a doctor or physician assistant can be found in the Glossary.
Other Health Care Professionals
If you feel you received incompetent, negligent or fraudulent care from any other licensed health care professionals, such as nurses, dentists, social workers, optometrists, psychologists, physical or occupational therapists and podiatrists, you may file a complaint by contacting:
New York State Education DepartmentOffice of Professional Discipline
475 Park Avenue South
2nd Floor
New York, New York 10016
(800) 442-8106