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Report a Potential Violation

The NDBSWE requires the reporting of potential violations to be submitted using the NDBSWE Complaint form.

Complaint Record and Confidentiality

Under North Dakota Law, complaint forms are an open record (N.D.C.C 44-04-18).

Discussion about a complaint occurs at meetings of the NDBSWE and those meetings are open to the public and minutes of the meetings are published on the NDBSWE website. 

As part of its investigation of a complaint, the NDBSWE may examine and copy records, including patient records, interview witnesses, obtain expert opinions, and take any other action necessary to investigate the complaint.  Patient, client, and minor child information and records disclosed to the NDBSWE remain confidential.  The Board is required to discuss such confidential information in an executive session.

Complaint Process

• A written and signed complaint is received by the NDBSWE. (NOTE: The NDBSWE cannot accept complaints over the phone and the complaint form must be signed.)
• The licensed party against whom the complaint is made will receive a copy of the complaint and be allowed to respond to the allegations in writing. 
• The NDBSWE will consider the complaint and the licensed party's response at the next scheduled quarterly Board meeting after the licensed party's response is received.
• All correspondence between the NDBSWE and both the party making the complaint and licensed party against whom the complaint is made will be in writing. 
• Once the NDBSWE makes a decision regarding to the complaint, both parties will be notified in writing by the NDBSWE's legal counsel.

Types of Disciplinary Action

The NDBSWE is authorized to take disciplinary action, ranging from a letter of reprimand to the most severe action of revocation of license. Types of disciplinary action include:

• Issue letter of reprimand;
• Require specific or additional continuing education;
• Place a license on probationary status;
• Suspend a license;
• Restrict a license;
• Refuse to renew a license; and/or
• Revoke a license.

NDBSWE Complaint Form