If you or a loved one have concerns about medical care received in Illinois, several agencies are responsible for overseeing healthcare professionals and facilities. Holding healthcare providers accountable is essential for maintaining high standards of care and preventing future negligence.
In cases where medical malpractice has resulted in lasting harm or bodily injuries, lawyers play a crucial role in helping victims seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, even when negligence does not lead to lasting damage, reporting incidents is still important to ensure accountability and protect future patients.
This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to report medical issues and file complaints against doctors and hospitals in Illinois.
1. Identify the Appropriate Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Oversees complaints against individual doctors and medical professionals, particularly related to unprofessional conduct or malpractice.
Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
Investigates complaints about healthcare facilities, unsafe environments, and patient harm due to negligence.
2. Filing a Complaint Against a Doctor
If you believe a doctor has engaged in misconduct or provided inappropriate medical care, you can report them to the Illinois Medical Board under IDFPR.
How to File a Complaint:
- Online: Submit a complaint through the IDFPR’s portal: File a Complaint
- Mail: Download, complete, and mail the complaint form to:
Complaint Intake Unit
100 West Randolph Street, Suite 9-300
Chicago, IL 60601 - Phone: Call IDFPR at 312-814-6910 for assistance.
3. Filing a Complaint About a Healthcare Facility
If the issue involves a hospital, nursing home, or another healthcare facility, file a complaint with IDPH.
Ways to File a Complaint
- By Phone
- Call the Central Complaint Registry Hotline at 800-252-4343 (available 24/7).
- TTY for hearing impaired: 800-547-0466.
- Online
- Visit the OHCR Portal and select “File a Complaint.”
- By Mail
- Download and complete the Health Care Facility Complaint Form.
- Mail it to:
Illinois Department of Public Health
Office of Health Care Regulation
Central Complaint Registry
525 W. Jefferson St., Ground Floor
Springfield, IL 62761-0001
- By Fax
- Fax the completed form to 217-524-8885.
- By Email
- Send the completed form to [email protected].
Required Information
- The healthcare facility’s name, address, and type.
- A detailed description of the incident, including dates and any witnesses.
- Patient information (if applicable).
Complaints can be filed anonymously, but providing your contact information ensures updates on the investigation’s outcome.
4. Gather Necessary Documentation
When filing a complaint, include as many details as possible to support the investigation. Important details include:
- Doctor or facility name and license number
- Incident details (date, location, and description)
- Supporting documents, such as:
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Billing statements
- Correspondence with the doctor or facility
5. What to Expect After Filing a Complaint
Once a complaint is submitted, the agency will:
- Review the details to determine jurisdiction.
- Conduct an investigation if necessary.
- Notify you of any actions taken against the doctor or facility.
For legal advice or assistance with malpractice claims, consider consulting an attorney.
6. The Role of Lawyers in Medical Malpractice Cases
If medical negligence leads to significant harm, a medical malpractice attorney can help victims:
- Assess whether the case meets the legal criteria for malpractice.
- Gather evidence to support a claim.
- File lawsuits to recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Even when malpractice does not leave lasting physical damage, it is still essential to hold healthcare providers accountable. Filing complaints ensures that improper practices are addressed and helps prevent future medical errors.
7. Additional Resources
- The Joint Commission – Accredits hospitals and investigates patient safety concerns. File a Report
- Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – Assists with concerns related to nursing home care. Learn More
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) – Office for Civil Rights – Investigates patient rights violations and HIPAA concerns. File a Complaint
By following these steps, you can take action to hold healthcare providers accountable and promote safer medical care in Illinois.