In Tennessee, the state medical and dental societies will mediate certain consumer disputes. The service is also offered by the Mississippi and Arkansas dental associations. The process, which is free to consumers and relies on volunteer professionals, can take months and such groups cannot force either side to accept its recommendations. If legal action is under way, the groups won't review a case. Often they just want the physician to know how they feel.
Most physicians take the grievance seriously.
Donio recommends consumers bypass such options and report problems directly to the state. In the Mid-South, state boards accept written complaints. They are reviewed, often by an attorney and a board consultant who is a member of the same profession. The process sometimes takes months and involves reviewing medical records and interviewing those involved. Typically it concludes with a recommendation that the complaint be dropped or that the professional be sanctioned, which might include a fine or having their license suspended or revoked.