When a complaint is referred to an investigation, an investigator who does not know the individuals involved in the complaint is appointed. The investigator’s role is to gather the details and facts about the conduct alleged in the complaint.
The investigator may:
- Request additional information from both parties, including originals or copies of documentation
- Meet with and/or interview the complainant
- Meet with and/or interview the investigated member
- Meet with others who may have supporting information, such as witnesses identified by either party
- Request consultation for an expert opinion
When a complaint goes to an investigation, the parties will receive:
- Notice that an investigation will be conducted
- The name of the investigator
- Updates to confirm the investigation is still in progress. Note, no details of findings can be provided during the investigation, only progress updates.
We make every effort to complete a thorough investigation in a timely fashion; however, an investigation may take months. There may be many individuals involved in the process, and the time to complete an investigation is variable and dependent on a variety of factors, including the complexity and severity of the complaint issue(s) raised.
- The complaint may be dismissed if evidence does not support the complaint or there is insufficient evidence to proceed.
- With consent from the complainant, we may work with the paramedic to make necessary practice changes.
- The complaint may progress to a formal hearing, which can result in disciplinary action against the paramedic.