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Making a complaint

Our complaints process

The public or health care professionals can raise concerns around physicians through our complaints process. It is a decision-based, legal process determined by evidence. 

When we get a written complaint, our first step is to make sure we can resolve it within our authority. That means that we may or may not be able to act upon the complaint based on the Medical Profession Act and Regulations.   

We look for the best decision to move forward based on options defined within the  Medical Profession Act. 

Making a complaint

Before you make a complaint, we recommend you first try to resolve any issue with the physician involved if possible.

To make a complaint against a physician:

    1. Fill out the complaint form.
    2. Be sure to include the patient's date of birth and health care number.
    3. The person filing the complaint must sign the form.
    4. You can submit the complaint form in the following ways:
      1.  Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
      2.  Fax:  867-393-6483
      3.  Mail: Yukon Medical Council, Box 2703 (C-18) Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6
      4.  In person: 307 Black Street, Whitehorse, Yukon

What to expect – Complainant

  • The physician will get a copy of the complaint and will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations. The complainant will have an opportunity to review the physician's response and reply. 
  • The complaint process can take several months to years. The length of time depends on how complex and severe the case is. There may be situations where we may need an investigator or an expert opinion. We will inform you of the next steps as they happen. 
  • The complaint process can include:
    • collecting written statements; 
    • conducting interviews;
    • reviewing patient files; 
    • holding a hearing; and
    • other methods.
  • Once we have reached a decision, you will be informed of the outcome.

The Yukon Medical Council cannot do the following for a complainant: 

  • Make a physician provide a service.
  • Transfer care to another physician.
  • Order an apology.
  • Order compensation, money or otherwise, to the complainant.
  • Help with a lawsuit.
  • Settle a personal dispute.
  • Change medical records.
  • Action anonymous complaints.
  • Action complaints by telephone.

What to expect – Respondent (Physician)

When you are the subject of a complaint: 

  1.  We'll inform you of the complaint against you and ask you to respond to the complaint in writing within 30 days.
  2.  The complainant will have an opportunity to review your response and add a reply.
  3.  There may be situations where we may need an investigator or an expert opinion. We'll inform you of the next steps as they happen. 
  4.  You'll receive a copy of the decision.

Possible outcomes of a complaint 

The Yukon Medical Council processes complaints in accordance with rules outlined in the Medical Profession Act. The Act defines how the Yukon Medical Council can proceed based on the information relating to the complaint. 

Results can include but are not limited to: 

  • dismissing the complaint;
  • suspending or cancelling a physician’s licence;
  • placing conditions or restrictions on a licence; and
  • requiring the physician to complete extra education.

Questions?

Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information and guidance about our complaints process.