The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has launched a new online portal for residents to file complaints about licensed health care professionals. The resource also can be used by medical providers for the required reporting of serious accidents and incidents.
State health officials say the online tool has been established to simplify the submission of information. As part of the new portal, complainants will answer questions aimed at pinpointing what DPH will need to address during the investigation process. Facility information will auto-populate, making it easier for the public to use and for DPH staff to triage.
DPH's Deputy Director of Healthcare Quality Gwen Thompson says the new portal is designed to expedite the filing and reporting process while making the state's licensed facilities safer for all South Carolinians.
“The new complaints portal is for anyone who wishes to file a complaint against a health facility or service regulated by DPH,” Thompson said. “When you encounter issues with a health facility or service regulated by DPH, you have the right to voice your concerns. Our new portal will streamline that process, making it easier for people to submit complaints and assisting our staff in addressing their concerns.”
DPH’s Bureau of Healthcare Quality (HQ) regulates certain health care facilities and providers in South Carolina. The division enforces standards, inspects and licenses facilities while also working with these businesses to improve the quality and safety of the care they provide.
To submit a complaint, visit DPH’s File a Complaint webpage. For complaints that cannot be submitted online, DPH's HQ office can be reached at 800-922-6735.