What are the possible responses the board can take upon receiving a complaint?

The board has specific protocols it follows when it receives a complaint regarding an optometry practitioner. Among these protocols, dismissing the complaint is a common first response if the board finds no grounds for action. If the complaint warrants further consideration, the board can opt for an informal hearing to gather additional information in a less formal setting. This allows for a detailed examination of the claims without the legal complexities of a formal hearing setting, which is typically reserved for more serious allegations or issues.

This understanding of the processes involved—dismissal for unfounded complaints and the option for informal hearings—highlights the board's intention to address complaints efficiently while ensuring due process for the practitioner involved. These steps ultimately serve to protect both the public and the integrity of the profession.