Complaints FAQ

What type of doctors can complaints be made against?

The Medical Council can consider a complaint about any doctor practising in Ireland. This includes doctors working in all branches of medicine, including hospital and general practice.

Do I need to instruct a solicitor if I wish to make a complaint?

It is not necessary to instruct a Solicitor. However, the Medical Council will accept a complaint made on your behalf from a Solicitor.

Will my complaint be provided to the doctor?

The Council is obliged to tell the doctor when a complaint is made about them.  The Council will also provide the doctor with a copy of the complaint to the doctor and will give the doctor an opportunity to respond to the complaint.

How long does the Preliminary Proceedings Committee complaints procedure take?

Depending on the complexity of a complaint it can take up to 5 months or more from the date of receipt of the complaint for the PPC to make a decision in relation to a complaint.