What must the Board do once they receive a complaint?

Upon receiving a complaint, the Board must take the essential step of verifying the details by contacting the complainant. This process is vital to ensure that the complaint is credible and well-founded before any further action is taken. By reaching out to the complainant, the Board not only gathers necessary information but also clarifies any ambiguities that might exist in the initial complaint. This thorough approach helps to uphold the integrity of the investigation and ensures that the rights of the accused eye doctor are considered as well.

Engaging with the complainant also assists in assessing the nature and severity of the allegations, which can affect the subsequent steps the Board may take, such as whether an investigation is warranted or if further inquiries need to be made. This verification process is a crucial part of maintaining due process within the disciplinary system of optometry.