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Peer Review
 Even in the best
dentist-patient relationship, a problem may occur. First, discuss any
concerns you have with your dentist. Many times this will help clear up
the matter. If you are still not pleased, the KDA has an established
dispute resolution system called Peer Review to help resolve the
occasional disagreement about dental treatment
Peer Review Overview
WHAT IS PEER REVIEW?
In its simplest terms, Peer Review is a voluntary mechanism by which
the Kansas Dental Association's Peer Review Committees review matters
concerning, but not limited to:
WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF PEER REVIEW?
It is the responsibility of a Peer Review Committee to explore to the
extent necessary all matters referred to it and to do so within a
period of time that makes its efforts effective and expeditious. It is
the obligation of such Committee to conduct unbiased and objective
hearings. The Committee has an equal responsibility to all involved
parties.
WHAT ARE THE DUTIES
OF THE COUNCIL ON PEER REVIEW?
To uphold Kansas Dental Association's and American Dental Association's
high standards of professional care, conduct and code of ethics.
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To review complaint cases submitted by
the patient, dentist or third parties.
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To maintain records of all cases and
their resolutions for the period of time specified by the Peer Review
Manual.
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To finalize matters within thirty days in
most cases.
PEER REVIEW DOES NOT:
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Claim to be a court of law.
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Force itself on either party. (However,
all parties to a Peer Review proceeding are asked to abide by the
decision of the Committee.)
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Review cases currently in litigation or
cases presented to the Kansas Dental Board.
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Award punitive damages.
WHO SITS ON THE PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE?
The Committees are composed of dentists well respected in their
professional community. In most instances a lay person also serves on
each of the Committees.
WHAT PROCEDURE IS
USED?
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A written request for review is received
by the Kansas Dental Association.
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The Chairman of the Council on Peer
Review reviews the complaint to see if it falls within the realm of
Peer Review.
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A copy of the complaint is then forwarded
to the Chairman of the Peer Review Committee who appoints a member of
the Committee to act as mediator.
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Within ten days, the mediator contacts
all parties via telephone and tries to reconcile differences. THE
MEDIATOR DOES NOT EXAMINE PATIENT.
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If the case is resolved by the mediator,
a written report is submitted by the Chairman and the case is closed.
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If the case is not resolved by the
mediator, the latter informs the chairman by written report that
further action by the entire Peer Review Committee is warranted.
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The chairman schedules a meeting of the
Peer Review Committee.
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The patient and dentist are asked to sign
the request form, indicating his/her willingness to be examined and to
accept the decision of the Committee.
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Because Peer Review is not a court of
law, attorneys are excluded from Peer Review proceedings.
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Content of all cases is kept in the
strictest of confidence.
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One may appeal the decision of the
Committee within 30 days by submitted a written request based upon:
Other avenues of complaint review can be to the
Kansas Dental Board or the Civil Court System.
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