What role does the expert report have in the investigation?
The expert’s opinion is important evidence the Commission considers when deciding what the most appropriate outcome of a complaint would be, i.e. termination, comments, or referral for consideration of disciplinary action. The expert opinion is particularly relevant in relation to clinical issues. However, while the expert opinion plays an important role in the decision to prosecute, other information is also required to be taken into account by the Commission’s Director of Proceedings. If a complaint is ultimately prosecuted before a Tribunal or Professional Standards Committee (PSC), it is the role of the Tribunal or PSC to determine what the standard is, whether there has been a significant departure from the standard, and whether or not the conduct amounts to unsatisfactory professional conduct or professional misconduct. In reaching this decision, the Tribunal or PSC has regard to all of the evidence, including the report you provided and also taking into account the expertise of
