Complaints

Overview of Responsibilities

The Alabama Board of Physical Therapy has jurisdiction over investigation of complaints that are placed against physical therapists or physical therapist assistants. The board is responsible for receiving and investigating complaints placed against physical therapists and physical therapist assistants and has authority to conduct investigations, enforce regulations and impose sanctions when a violation of law or regulation has occurred.

The board has no jurisdiction over actions concerning fees.

The Handling of Complaints

The Board of Physical Therapy receives complaints against its licensees and will determine if the complaint falls within its jurisdiction. If the complaint is within the board’s jurisdiction, an investigation will be conducted.

The Complainant is notified of the board’s decision on each complaint. You should note, however, that the proper conduct of an investigation can be a time-consuming process and it may be several months before the investigation is completed and a decision is reached.

If a violation of the law or regulation has occurred, the board may give the licensee an opportunity to come into compliance with the law or regulation, or the board may determine that other action is necessary. If there is no violation of law or regulation, the file on the complaint is closed.

If the investigation should result in a formal hearing, the board may subpoena persons to testify at that hearing if it is believed that their testimony is essential to the case.

Filing A Complaint

Complaints should be submitted on the enclosed Complaint Form. It is important that you complete the form and include as much fact as is available, including such things as the date(s) of the alleged action, the licensee’s full name and address, the exact nature of the complaint, the names of other individuals who might be involved and their relationship to the complaint, as well as any other information which will assist in the investigation.

The board will acknowledge receipt of your complaint, may contact you for additional information, and will notify you of the board’s decision concerning the complaint.

View and print the complaint form here in PDF format:

Information is believed to be accurate, but not guaranteed. The State of Alabama and the Alabama Board of Physical Therapy disclaim liability for any errors or omissions. To verify any information, please contact the Alabama Board of Physical Therapy.