<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" citation="COMAR 10.07.06.11" title_num="10" subtitle_num="07" chapter_num="06" heading="Patient Complaint Program.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>In accordance with this regulation, the patient safety program shall include a formal written program for addressing patient complaints.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>The hospital shall provide patients with information regarding the hospital's patient complaint program including:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>The name of the hospital's representative that the patient may contact if the patient wishes to make a complaint; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>The hospital representative's phone number or address.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>The hospital's representative shall treat the complainant with dignity and courtesy and due regard for the individual's privacy.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>The hospital's representative shall provide the complainant with information about the complaint including:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>The hospital representative that the patient may contact for information regarding the complaint;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>The procedure for investigating the complaint;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>The length of time in which the complainant can expect a response or resolution to the complaint; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Notice that the patient may contact the Department at a specified telephone number or address with any complaint.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="E.">
    <text>The hospital's representative shall document the complaint and any action taken concerning the complaint or the hospital function complained about.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="F.">
    <text>Patient Safety Program Requirement—Notice to Patients and Families of Unanticipated Outcomes. The hospital shall inform the patient and, if appropriate, the patient's family whenever a final outcome of care differs significantly from an anticipated outcome.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>