Submit a Complaint

What is unprofessional conduct?

As the regulatory body for acupuncturists in Alberta, the College investigates complaints about registered acupuncturists. Complaints must relate to unprofessional conduct. For more detail, refer to the College's Complaint Management Policy.

Unprofessional conduct is defined in the Health Professions Act as:

• A lack of skill, knowledge, or judgment in the provision of professional services
• A contravention of legislation, professional standards, or Code of Conduct
• Acts of non-compliance with specific member requirements imposed by the College

What we can and cannot investigate

What outcome can I expect?

The College's role is the protection of the public. If a member's professional actions are of concern, our objective is to remediate the situation and improve practice — not to award compensation.

Remediation may include sanctions such as education, supervision, or financial penalties. In more serious situations, a suspension or cancellation of the member's practice permit may occur.

The complaint process

Once a complaint is received and accepted, various outcomes are possible:

If the complaint is dismissed

You may request a review within 30 days, in writing, with reasons. A Complaint Review Committee (CRC) will either confirm the dismissal or refer the complaint for investigation. The CRC decision is not further appealable.

If an investigation proceeds

The Complaints Director may conduct the investigation or retain an investigator. The purpose is to gather information, allow the member to respond, and produce an investigation report.

After reviewing the report, the Complaints Director may:

• Request additional information
• Dismiss the complaint (with same review options as above)
• Refer the complaint to a formal hearing

Hearings

If referred to a hearing, the complainant's role is as a witness only. The hearing is a matter between the College and the member.

Hearings are often held virtually. The hearing tribunal — made up of professional and public members — determines:

1. Whether the allegations have been proven
2. Whether the allegations constitute unprofessional conduct
3. If unprofessional conduct occurred, the appropriate remediation to protect the public

Findings of unprofessional conduct are posted following the appeal period and remain for 5 years or until all conditions are complied with, whichever is later.

Refer to the Hearings Handbook for a full overview of the process.

Appeals

The decision of the hearing tribunal may be appealed by either the member or the College. The appeal is heard by an appeals committee, whose decision is further appealable to the Alberta Court of Appeal.

Funds for therapy and counselling

Patients who have experienced sexual abuse or sexual misconduct by an acupuncturist are eligible for funding for therapy and counselling. Refer to Funds for Therapy and Counselling for more information.

Alberta Ombudsman

The complainant or the member may make a complaint to the Alberta Ombudsman if they believe the College's management of the complaint was administratively unfair.

The Ombudsman will require that all legislative options, such as appeals, be concluded first.