The Peer Review Committee of the Maryland Psychiatric Society works in conjunction with the MedChi Peer Review Management Committee to assess cases referred by the Board of Physician Quality Assurance. Cases come to the attention of the BPQA through various channels, such as complaints from patients or family members, "red flags” from pharmacy computers indicating possible unusual prescribing practices, and reports of disciplinary action by hospital boards.

There are numerous situations that may lead to an investigation. Boundary violations, for example sexual involvement with current or former patients, or inappropriate financial involvement (e.g. entering into a business venture) with patients are areas that frequently generate complaints. Substandard care as a result of impairment, due to substance abuse, for example, would also trigger an investigation. Prescribing large quantities of controlled substances, or frequently prescribing controlled substances without good clinical reason can also become grounds for investigation.

Once cases are referred to MPS Peer Review, a subcommittee is formed to do a thorough investigation, which usually involves reviewing records, interviewing the complainant and respondent, and writing a report. The full Peer Review Committee then discusses the case in order to reach a conclusion as to whether or not the standard of care for the practice of Psychiatry has been met. A final report is then sent to the BPQA, which decides whether or not disciplinary action is indicated.

The members of the Peer Review Committee donate their time to this labor-intensive activity. We feel that it is important to have representation from a broad spectrum of practitioners to fairly assess a particular case and to maintain current standards for the practice of Psychiatry. We also strongly believe that psychiatrists are in the best position to make this assessment.