Each year, some health professionals in Ontario will receive a notice of complaint from their governing College. For many, this is their first—and often most stressful—encounter with the professional discipline process. The impact can be significant, affecting a practitioner’s license, livelihood, and long-term reputation.
Whether you are a physician, nurse, psychologist, or physiotherapist, understanding your rights and obligations under Ontario’s professional regulation framework is essential. This article explains what to expect if you're the subject of a complaint and why early legal advice is critical to protecting your practice.
Understanding the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA)
In Ontario, the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA) sets the legal foundation for self-regulation across 26 health professions. Each profession is overseen by a regulatory College, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, the College of Nurses of Ontario, and the College of Psychologists of Ontario. These Colleges are responsible for licensing professionals, maintaining standards, and investigating complaints.
The legislation emphasizes public protection, meaning that regulatory bodies are required to take all complaints seriously, regardless of the source or perceived severity.
The Seriousness of a Complaint
A College complaint can have far-reaching consequences. In addition to the stress and uncertainty involved, the process may lead to formal findings of professional misconduct, remedial education requirements, practice restrictions, suspension, or even license revocation. Many of these outcomes are published on public registers, which can affect your professional reputation and employment prospects.
What Happens After a Complaint Is Filed?
Once a complaint is submitted, the College typically notifies the professional in writing and provides an opportunity to respond. The matter is reviewed by the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC), which may either close the file or initiate a more detailed investigation. This may include document review, interviews, and input from independent experts.
The ICRC has a range of options available. It can issue advice, require further education, or—if warranted—refer the case to the Discipline Committee for a formal hearing. These hearings are public, and the outcomes are generally published online. Although these steps generally apply, every situation is unique and you should seek legal advice specific to your case.
Why Early Legal Advice Makes a Difference
Some professionals may attempt to handle complaints on their own, especially if they believe the matter is minor or unfounded. However, this approach comes with risk.
Legal counsel can help you craft a clear and strategic response, advise you on potential outcomes, and support you throughout the investigation or hearing process. Early intervention can help resolve an issue more efficiently and with fewer professional consequences.
What to do next?
If you’ve received a notice of complaint or are under investigation by your regulatory College, early legal guidance is essential. We’re here to fight for you and assist in navigating this complex process.
Contact us today for confidential, experienced support in all matters related to professional regulation in Ontario’s health care sector.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter and is not legal advice. Specialist advice should be sought regarding your specific circumstance.