OAR 333-077-0055: Complaints

(1) Any person may make a complaint verbally or in writing to the Oregon Health Authority (Authority) regarding an allegation against a birthing center of a violation of birthing center licensing laws or regulations. (2) The identity of a person making a complaint and any personally identifiable information, as that is defined in ORS 432.005, is confidential and not subject to disclosure under ORS 192.311 to 192.478. (3) An investigation will be carried out as soon as practicable after receipt of a complaint in accordance with OAR 333-077-0060. (4) A birthing center shall post a complaint notice in the birthing center that is clearly visible to the public and includes the Authority's complaint reporting phone number, electronic mail address and website address. (5) An employee or contract provider with knowledge of inappropriate care or any violation of birthing center licensing laws shall use the reporting procedures established by the birthing center before notifying the Authority or other state agency of the inappropriate care or violation, unless the employee or contract provider believes a patient’s health or safety is in immediate jeopardy. (6) If the complaint involves an allegation of criminal conduct or an allegation that is within the jurisdiction of another local, state, or federal agency, the Authority will refer the matter to that agency.