All complaints will be investigated and treated seriously. DDSs are required to investigate all claimant complaints and take appropriate action per their State procedures, and notify the RO and DCO-ODD as appropriate.

References:

PM 00233.005 Regional Office (RO) Consultative Examination (CE) Oversight Procedures and

PM 00233.900 Regional Office (RO) Guide for Evaluating Disability Determination Service (DDS) Management of the Consultative Examination (CE) Process

The complaint should be written, preferably signed by the claimant, except in rare instances. Claimant complaints may be further defined as follows:

• •

  Rudeness and/or unprofessional manner/attitude.

• •

  Environmental factors (uncleanliness, poor accessibility, and/or lack of proper facilities).

• •

  Other complaints of a non-egregious nature.

• •

  Any allegation of an egregious nature which could include illegal/criminal activity, sexual harassment, cultural insensitivity, allegations compromising the health and safety of claimants, or other serious allegations.