How To Write A Complaint Letter About A Doctor

Dear Dr. [Last Name],

I am writing this letter to formally file a complaint regarding my recent experiences with your medical practice. I hope that by bringing these concerns to your attention, we can work towards a resolution and improve the quality of care provided.

On [date], I visited your clinic for a routine check-up and was highly dissatisfied with the level of service I received. Despite having made an appointment in advance, the wait time was excessively long, causing considerable inconvenience. Moreover, the lack of communication from the staff regarding the delay only added to my frustration.

During the consultation, I found your bedside manner to be dismissive and rushed. I felt that you did not take the time to listen to my concerns or adequately address my questions. This left me feeling unheard and undervalued as a patient.

Furthermore, I was disappointed with the lack of thoroughness in the examination process. It seemed as though you were in a hurry to move on to the next patient, as important aspects of my medical history were overlooked. As a result, I felt that the quality of care I received was subpar and did not meet the standard I expected from a medical professional.

I believe it is crucial for medical practitioners to provide attentive and compassionate care to their patients. It is disheartening to have experienced such a negative encounter under your care, as I had previously heard positive reviews about your practice.

I kindly request that you thoroughly review and address the issues raised in this letter. As a resolution, I would appreciate a written response from you, acknowledging the problems I encountered and outlining the steps you plan to take to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Additionally, I would like to discuss the possibility of arranging a follow-up appointment to address the concerns that were left unattended during my previous visit.

Please find attached copies of relevant documents, including receipts and appointment records, which support my complaint. If there is any further documentation or information you require, please let me know, and I will be happy to provide it.

I hope that we can resolve these matters amicably, ensuring that all patients receive the high standard of care they deserve. I look forward to hearing from you within [reasonable time frame, e.g., 14 days] to initiate a constructive conversation about these concerns.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will address my complaint promptly and professionally. Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at the above-mentioned contact details.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Remember to adapt this letter to your specific circumstances and include any additional relevant details.

Subject: Formal Complaint Against Dr. [Doctor's Full Name], License #[License Number]

Dear Medical Board Director,

I am writing to file a formal complaint against Dr. [Doctor's Full Name], who practices at [Medical Facility Name and Address]. On [specific date], I received treatment that fell significantly below acceptable medical standards and violated patient care protocols.

During my appointment for [medical concern], Dr. [Last Name] [describe specific incident: failed to conduct necessary examinations, misdiagnosed my condition despite clear symptoms, prescribed medication without reviewing my medical history and allergies, etc.]. As a direct result of this negligence, I [describe consequences: suffered complications, required emergency treatment, experienced prolonged pain, etc.].

I have documentation supporting this complaint, including medical records from [date], witness statements from [if applicable], and subsequent treatment records from [other healthcare provider] that contradict Dr. [Last Name]'s assessment.

This complaint is submitted after attempting to resolve the matter directly with [medical facility name], which [describe response or lack thereof]. I believe this incident represents a serious breach of medical ethics and patient safety standards that requires investigation by the Medical Board.

I request that you investigate this matter thoroughly and take appropriate disciplinary action to prevent other patients from experiencing similar harm. I am available to provide additional information, testimony, or documentation as needed for your investigation.

Please acknowledge receipt of this complaint and inform me of the investigation timeline and any actions taken.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Information]

[Patient ID or Medical Record Number]

Subject: Patient Complaint Regarding Dr. [Doctor's Name] - Patient ID: [Your ID]

Dear Hospital Administrator,

I am writing to formally document my concerns regarding the care I received from Dr. [Doctor's Full Name] in the [Department Name] on [date]. While I appreciate the overall quality of your facility, this particular experience requires administrative attention.

The specific issues I encountered include:

First, Dr. [Last Name] arrived nearly two hours late for my scheduled appointment without any notification or apology, despite my having arrived on time for a procedure that required fasting.

Second, during the consultation, the doctor appeared distracted, frequently interrupted our conversation to check their phone, and failed to answer my questions about the proposed treatment plan adequately.

Third, I was not provided with complete informed consent regarding the risks and alternatives to the procedure recommended, which I later learned about from another healthcare provider.

I have been a patient at [Hospital Name] for [length of time] and have consistently received excellent care. This experience was notably different and has caused me to question whether I can continue treatment with Dr. [Last Name].

I am requesting that this matter be reviewed and that I be assigned to a different physician within the department. Additionally, I would appreciate confirmation that steps will be taken to ensure other patients receive the attentive, professional care that your facility is known for.

I am available to discuss this matter further and can be reached at [phone] or [email]. I look forward to your response within [reasonable timeframe, e.g., 10 business days].

Respectfully,

[Your Full Name]

[Date]

Subject: Urgent Complaint - Misdiagnosis by Dr. [Doctor's Name]

Dear [Patient Relations Director/Medical Director],

I am writing to report a serious case of misdiagnosis that has significantly impacted my health and wellbeing. On [date], I consulted Dr. [Doctor's Full Name] at [Medical Facility] regarding [symptoms]. Despite presenting clear symptoms of [actual condition], Dr. [Last Name] diagnosed me with [incorrect diagnosis] without conducting appropriate diagnostic tests.

For [time period], I followed the treatment plan for the incorrect diagnosis, which included [medications/procedures]. During this time, my actual condition, [correct diagnosis], progressed untreated, resulting in [specific health consequences: hospitalization, permanent damage, emergency surgery, etc.].

When I sought a second opinion from Dr. [Second Doctor's Name] at [Other Facility], the correct diagnosis was identified within [timeframe] through [appropriate tests]. Dr. [Second Doctor] expressed concern that the initial symptoms I presented to Dr. [First Doctor's Last Name] should have warranted immediate [specific tests or referrals] according to standard medical protocols.

This misdiagnosis has resulted in:

- [Physical consequences]

- [Financial burden from incorrect treatment and subsequent emergency care]

- [Emotional distress]

- [Time lost from work]

- [Any permanent effects]

I have enclosed copies of my medical records from both providers, which clearly demonstrate the discrepancy in diagnostic approach and care quality. I am requesting a full review of my case, an explanation of why standard diagnostic protocols were not followed, and information about what corrective measures will be implemented.

This matter requires immediate attention, and I expect a substantive response within seven business days. I am prepared to escalate this complaint to the State Medical Board if necessary.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Contact Information]

[Dates of Service]

Subject: Complaint About Dismissive Care - Dr. [Doctor's Name]

Dear [Practice Manager/Patient Advocate],

I am writing with great disappointment to describe an experience that left me feeling unheard, dismissed, and ultimately harmed by the care I received from Dr. [Doctor's Name].

For months, I visited Dr. [Last Name] complaining of [specific symptoms]. Each time, I was told that my symptoms were "probably just stress" or "anxiety-related" without any diagnostic testing or thorough examination. As a [your gender/age], I felt that my concerns were not being taken seriously, and I was repeatedly sent home with advice to "relax more" and "exercise."

The breaking point came when [describe specific incident]. I knew something was genuinely wrong with my body, but I was made to feel as though I was overreacting or imagining my symptoms. The doctor's tone was condescending, and at one point, they suggested I "stop reading things on the internet."

Desperate for answers, I found another doctor who immediately ordered [appropriate tests], which revealed [actual diagnosis]. My new doctor was shocked that these basic tests had never been ordered and told me that my symptoms were "textbook" indicators of my condition.

I am not just frustrated—I am hurt. I trusted Dr. [Last Name] with my health, and that trust was violated. Every patient deserves to be heard and to have their concerns validated, even if the diagnosis ultimately proves to be minor. The dismissive attitude I experienced is unacceptable in healthcare.

I hope this letter prompts reflection and change so that other patients do not feel as invisible and invalidated as I did. Patients know their own bodies, and we deserve doctors who listen.

I would appreciate acknowledgment of this complaint and information about how patient concerns are being addressed within your practice.

With disappointment,

[Your Full Name]

[Date]

Subject: Unprofessional Conduct by Dr. [Doctor's Name]

Dear [Department Head/Clinic Director],

I am filing this complaint regarding unprofessional and inappropriate behavior exhibited by Dr. [Doctor's Full Name] during my appointment on [date] at [location].

During my visit, Dr. [Last Name] made several comments that were inappropriate and made me extremely uncomfortable. Specifically, [describe the unprofessional behavior: made personal comments unrelated to medical care, used inappropriate language, made discriminatory remarks, discussed other patients inappropriately, appeared to be under the influence, etc.].

This behavior is unacceptable in any professional setting, particularly in healthcare where patients are vulnerable and must trust their providers. I felt [uncomfortable, disrespected, unsafe, offended] and cut the appointment short because the environment had become inappropriate.

As a result of this experience, I am unwilling to continue treatment with Dr. [Last Name] and request immediate reassignment to another provider within your facility. I also believe this behavior warrants investigation to determine whether other patients have experienced similar treatment.

I have documented this incident with [notes taken immediately after, witness present, etc.] and am prepared to provide additional details if necessary. This type of conduct damages the patient-provider relationship and reflects poorly on your facility.

I expect a prompt response addressing how this matter will be handled and confirmation of my reassignment to a different doctor.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Patient ID]

[Contact Information]

Subject: HIPAA Violation Complaint - Breach of Medical Privacy

Dear [Privacy Officer/Compliance Director],

I am writing to report a serious breach of my medical privacy by Dr. [Doctor's Full Name] that constitutes a violation of HIPAA regulations.

On [date], I discovered that Dr. [Last Name] [describe violation: discussed my medical condition with unauthorized individuals, left my records accessible to others, disclosed my diagnosis to family members without permission, posted about my case on social media, etc.].

I did not provide authorization for my medical information to be shared in this manner. The unauthorized disclosure included [specific information disclosed], which is protected health information under HIPAA.

This breach has caused me significant distress and [describe consequences: damaged personal relationships, affected employment, caused emotional harm, etc.]. Medical privacy is a fundamental patient right, and this violation has destroyed my trust in Dr. [Last Name] and potentially your facility.

I am requesting:

1. A full investigation into how this breach occurred

2. Written confirmation of what steps will be taken to prevent future violations

3. Notification of any disciplinary action taken against Dr. [Last Name]

4. Information about my rights to file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights

I have documented evidence of this privacy violation, including [describe evidence]. This is a serious matter that may require legal action if not addressed appropriately.

I expect a response within five business days acknowledging receipt of this complaint and outlining the investigation process.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Date]

[Contact Information]

Subject: Complaint Regarding Charges for Inadequate Care

Dear Billing Department and Patient Relations,

I am disputing charges on my account (Account #[number]) related to services provided by Dr. [Doctor's Name] on [date]. I am refusing to pay for care that was substandard and did not meet basic professional standards.

During my appointment, Dr. [Last Name] spent less than five minutes with me, did not conduct a physical examination despite my presenting symptoms, and prescribed medication without reviewing my medical history. The appointment I was charged for was supposed to be a comprehensive evaluation, but I received cursory attention at best.

I have been billed $[amount] for a service that was not adequately provided. I am requesting that this charge be removed from my account or significantly reduced to reflect the actual level of care received.

Additionally, I am filing a separate complaint about the quality of care with [appropriate department], but I wanted the billing department to be aware that I will not be paying for services that were not properly rendered.

Please review this matter and respond within 15 days with an adjusted bill or explanation. I am prepared to dispute this charge with my insurance company and through other channels if necessary.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

[Your Full Name]

[Account Number]

[Date]

Subject: Follow-Up to Unresolved Complaint - Reference #[if provided]

Dear [Administrator/Director],

This letter serves as a follow-up to my initial complaint filed on [date] regarding Dr. [Doctor's Name]. To date, I have not received a response, or the response I received on [date] was inadequate to address the serious concerns I raised.

To summarize my original complaint: [brief description of main issues]. These are serious matters that affect patient safety and quality of care, yet [describe lack of response or inadequate response].

I am disappointed that [facility name] has not taken this complaint seriously. The lack of response suggests that patient concerns are not a priority, which is deeply troubling for a healthcare institution.

I am now escalating this matter and have [filed a complaint with the State Medical Board, contacted a patient advocate, consulted with legal counsel, etc.]. I am also providing copies of both this letter and my original complaint to [additional recipients].

I am giving you one final opportunity to address this matter appropriately before I proceed with formal external complaints. I expect a substantive response within five business days that includes a clear action plan for addressing the issues I have raised.

Patient safety and quality care should be your top priorities. Your handling of this complaint will determine whether I pursue further action through regulatory agencies and legal channels.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Date]

[All previous reference numbers]