Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a new doctor ?The Spokane County Medical Society provides a free service to the citizens of Spokane County by offering a Medical Referral Service. This service is available weekdays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. by calling (509) 325-5010. If it is an emergency please do not call the Medical Society's Referral Line, go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room as we can not get you an emergency appointment at a doctor's office. We need to know what type of insurance you have (if any) and what side of town you are so we can try to find you a doctor close to you. Please understand that we may not be able to find exactly the type of doctor that you are looking for, as only participating members are on our referral list. Back to TopWhat do I do if I have a complaint against a doctor ?First and foremost, speak with the physician involved. We have found that in many instances, when the doctor and patient sit down and talk over misunderstandings, matters can be resolved to the satisfaction of both parties. If you are unable to resolve your problem thru communications with the physician you may have your complaint reviewed by the Spokane County Medical Society's Grievance Committee. The Grievance Committee is not a governing body and can not award damages, however we can act as a moderator and help make an impartial judgment of all available facts and information. When a patient has a valid complaint, it is to the advantage of the medical profession that action, when justified, should and must be taken. Back to TopCan a doctor charge for copies of medical records ?A rules hearing was held on July 10, 2001, for the purpose of amending WAC 246-08400, fees for searching and duplicating medical records. Every two years the Department of Health is required to adjust the fee that medical providers may charge for searching and duplicating records. The adjustment is based on the change in the consumer price index for all consumers for the Seattle/Tacoma area. Fees for copying were adjusted to:
This rule is effective August 20, 2001 through June 30, 2003. Back to TopHow can I find out if there has been any disciplinary cases involving my doctor ?You may write a letter requesting their disciplinary record to: Medical Quality Assurance Commission PO Box 47866 Olympia, WA 98504-7866
For other health care providers, everything from massage to mental health counselors, call the state Department of Health at (360) 236-4700, press 6, and ask for the address of the state commission for that specialty. For a quick check of a person's disciplinary track record, call the number above, press 6, and ask. If you have time, its best to make your request in writing, you'll get more detailed information. Back to Top
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