WSDA member dentists are expected to be sensitive to any concerns expressed by a patient during or after treatment and to be willing to discuss explicit complaints. However, some informal methods of resolving these concerns are not always sufficient. As a member benefit, Peer Review exists to address these situations when they arise.
What is Peer Review?
Peer Review provides an expert and credible system for resolving disagreements that cannot be resolved at an earlier, more informal stage. If a WSDA member dentist and patient experience disagreement over provided care, the two parties may elect to undergo the Peer Review process.
During the process, the disagreement is heard by a Peer Review panel. Panels are composed of dentists with appropriate credentials who conduct hearings, review evidence, and make objective decisions based on their findings. Peer Review panel members are volunteers who practice and live in your local community.
Peer Review is Not a Court of Law
It has no disciplinary powers, and is not a punitive process. The purpose is to help educate, mediate, clarify, and, where necessary, exercise remedial procedures.
Peer Review is Voluntary
However, all parties must comply with the findings of an arbitrated settlement. Peer review does not consider cases that are in litigation.
How Do I Request Peer Review?
Requests for peer review involving WSDA members are first handled by the component society in which the care in question was delivered.
Complaints involving non-WSDA member dentists can be directed to the Washington State Department of Health.
Please click here to begin the request process.