Related Links:

• Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California
• American Osteopathic Association – AOA
• Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement
• Department of Consumer Affairs
• California Medical Board

• Decisions Pending & Opportunities for Public Participation
• Model Guidelines for Issuing Citations and Imposing Discipline
• California Physical Therapy Association (CPTA)

Consumer Information

Protecting Consumers

One of the most important ways the Osteopathic Medical Board protects consumers is by investigating consumer complaints. The board reviews complaints against osteopathic physicians and surgeons in a variety of areas:

• Quality of care and treatment provided by an osteopathic physician.
• Violation of drug-prescribing laws.
• Substance abuse by an osteopathic physician.
• Sexual misconduct or other unprofessional conduct.
• Dishonesty (including filing fraudulent insurance/Medi-Cal/Medicare Claims).
• Aiding the practice of medicine by an unlicensed individual.

Consumers may have a complaint that should be handled through other resources. The Osteopathic Medical Board does not have authority over complaints concerning:

• Fee or billing disputes.
• General business practices.
• Personality conflicts.
• Health-care providers licensed by other boards, bureaus or agencies -- providers such as hospitals, laboratories and health maintenance organizations.