CPSO Complaints, Investigations and Defence

If the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) has asked you to respond to a complaint, produce records or attend an interview, the first step is to identify what the notice requires and when. The Law Office of Kalina & Tejpal represents Ontario physicians in College investigations and discipline matters.

Responding to a complaint or investigation

A complaint is not a finding of misconduct. A patient complaint, a report from an employer or hospital, and a Registrar’s investigation may raise different issues. We review the notice, identify the applicable standards and deadlines, and help prepare a response supported by the records. If more time is needed, ask for an extension and confirm it; do not assume it has been granted.

Keep original records and correspondence intact. We can advise on the scope of a records request, how to cooperate lawfully, and how to handle confidentiality and solicitor-client privilege. If there is a related hospital, employment, civil or criminal matter, we consider how a response in one proceeding may affect the others.

Committee decisions and interim restrictions

The Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) considers the investigation record. Depending on the case, it may take no further action, issue a caution, require education or remediation, or refer allegations to discipline. These are different outcomes, with different consequences for practice and what may be made public. See the College’s overview of the complaints process.

Under the Health Professions Procedural Code, the Committee can make an interim order suspending or restricting practice where the statutory risk threshold is met. An interim order is not a final finding. We assess the evidence, any immediate obligations, and whether a response, variation or challenge is available.

Defence at a discipline hearing

The Ontario Physicians and Surgeons Discipline Tribunal (OPSDT) decides allegations of professional misconduct or incompetence referred to it. A referral is not a finding. We review the allegations and disclosure, assess whether expert evidence is needed, and advise on settlement or contested hearing strategy. If a finding is made, we address the potential order and its effect on registration, practice and public reporting. We also assess any available review or appeal route and applicable deadlines.

What to bring to a consultation

Have the notice, response date, correspondence, any existing orders or undertakings, and a brief chronology ready. If there is an imminent interview, hearing or proposed restriction, tell us when you contact us. Do not send patient-identifying records through an unsecured initial enquiry.

See our Regulatory and Professional Discipline practice and Regulatory and Professional Discipline Insights.

This page provides general information about Ontario regulatory proceedings, not legal advice.