Will a CPSO complaint get me compensation?

No. The CPSO addresses conduct and competence. Compensation for harm requires a civil medical negligence claim, which is a separate route with a strict limitation period — start both promptly if you intend to pursue damages.

Is there a deadline to complain?

The CPSO can decline very old complaints, and separately the civil limitation period runs regardless of your complaint. Do not let the college process consume your court deadline.

How do I get my medical records?

You generally have a right of access under Ontario's health privacy legislation. Request in writing; refusals can be taken to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario.

CPSO — Complaints About a Doctor in Ontario

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)

The CPSO licenses and regulates Ontario physicians and investigates complaints about their conduct and competence. It can restrict or revoke a licence but cannot award you compensation — a claim for harm is a separate civil negligence action with its own limitation period. Complaints are free and you do not need a lawyer to file one.

What it does

Licenses physicians and maintains a public register
Investigates complaints about conduct, competence and capacity
Refers serious matters to its Discipline Tribunal
Can impose restrictions, suspend or revoke a certificate

Matters it hears

Misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis and standard-of-care concerns
Informed consent failures
Prescribing and opioid-management concerns
Communication, professionalism and boundary violations
Record-keeping and access-to-records refusals

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB).

If the CPSO decides not to act on your complaint, you may request a review by HPARB. Compensation requires a civil negligence claim.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a CPSO complaint get me compensation?: No. The CPSO addresses conduct and competence. Compensation for harm requires a civil medical negligence claim, which is a separate route with a strict limitation period — start both promptly if you intend to pursue damages.
Is there a deadline to complain?: The CPSO can decline very old complaints, and separately the civil limitation period runs regardless of your complaint. Do not let the college process consume your court deadline.
How do I get my medical records?: You generally have a right of access under Ontario's health privacy legislation. Request in writing; refusals can be taken to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.