Frequently Asked Questions

Complaints should be clearly written or typed, and signed. Complaints can be filed through our Consumer Services Unit.

Yes, as provided below:

• Incidents occurring before July 1, 2006 -€“ no time limit
• Incident occurring after July 1, 2006 -€“ six (6) years.
• If fraud, concealment or intentional misrepresentation of facts prevented the discovery of the alleged violation – 12 years.
• If criminal actions, diversion of controlled substances, sexual misconduct, or impairment by a licensee – no limit.

Complaints against hospitals, assisted living facilities and nursing homes should be filed with the Agency for Health Care Administration.

Fee disputes (i.e. broken or missed appointments)

Billing disputes (It is the responsibility of consumers to know the terms of their insurance coverage and approved providers.)

Personality conflicts

Bedside manner or rudeness of practitioners

For additional information, please see Consumer Services

Complaints can be filed against any healthcare practitioner or facility licensed or regulated by the Department of Health’€™s Division of Medical Quality Assurance (MQA).  Complaints can also be filed against any individual or facility providing health care services regulated by MQA without a valid Florida license.  Information on Regulated Professions

To file a complaint on a non-medical related business or profession, please visit the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

Complaints can be filed through our Consumer Services Unit.

Anyone can file a complaint. Complaints should be clearly written or typed, and signed. Complaints can be filed through our Consumer Services Unit.

According to Rule 64B8-10.002(3), FAC : A licensed physician shall keep adequate written medical records, as required by Section 458.331(1)(m), Florida Statutes, for a period of at least five years from the last patient contact; however, medical malpractice law requires records to be kept for at least seven years.

Yes. A health care practitioner can terminate a patient relationship at any time, but the practitioner may not abandon a patient and should provide continuity of care in accordance with the prevailing professional standard of care. The Florida Medical Association (FMA) recommends to a practitioner who wishes to terminate a relationship that the practitioner should give the patient adequate notice in writing, and the practitioner should remain available to the patient for at least 30 days in order to allow time for the patient to find a new practitioner. The FMA also recommends that the practitioner terminating the relationship should provide assistance in locating another practitioner for the patient. The Florida Medical Association is not affiliated with the Board of Medicine.

No.

Yes.

No. But it is highly recommend for the protection of the physician and the patient.