When not to file a complaint

The College cannot intervene in a decision made by an insurance company, CPP, Worker’s Compensation or Employment Insurance. If one of these entities has denied your claim, you can use their appeals process. 

In addition, a doctor conducting an independent medical examination is not considered to be providing you with care.

The College oversees physicians, physician assistants, medical students, and residents. The College cannot address the care or conduct of nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, or other members of a health care team. 

For concerns regarding a nurse or nurse practitioner, please consult the Nurses Association of New Brunswick. 

For concerns regarding a pharmacist, please consult the New Brunswick Pharmacists’ Association.

Complaints about care received in a hospital or long-term care home may sometimes be complex and multi-faceted and involve the care or conduct of physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners and pharmacists. The College only oversees physicians and physician assistants. The College cannot address the care or conduct of nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, or other members of a health care team. While complaints about physicians working in these environments may be presented to the College, it may be preferable to present your complaint to the hospital or long-term care home if it touches on the care or conduct provided by more than just the physician so that all your concerns may be addressed at the same time.

Doctors write their notes based on their assessment at the time. If you think there is a mistake in your medical record, the College cannot order your doctor to correct this. We suggest contacting OmbudNB for more information at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 1-888-465-1100.