Georgia Dental Association Logo

Peer Review Mediation

Peer Review Mediation is a fair, confidential, dentist-guided path to resolving concerns before they become something bigger.

Even in the best practices, things sometimes go sideways. A crown doesn’t feel right, expectations don’t match the outcome, or a conversation goes poorly and a patient stops listening. Those situations usually don’t need a courtroom or a complaint to the Georgia Board of Dentistry. They need a calm, knowledgeable third party who understands dentistry.

That’s what GDA Peer Review provides. Trained member dentists on the GDA Peer Review and Ethics Council look at the facts, listen to both sides, and help reach a fair resolution based on the standard of care.

Why it matters to you
  • Reviewed by people who understand the work. The dentists reviewing your case know what treatment involves and why clinical decisions get made.
  • Resolution, not punishment. The process focuses on whether care was appropriate and what fair next steps look like. It does not award punitive damages.
  • A better option for your patient. Giving an unhappy patient a credible, neutral process can de-escalate a situation that might otherwise turn into litigation or an unnecessary complaint to the Georgia Board of Dentistry.
  • Confidential and at no additional cost to members. Peer review prevents unnecessary expenses related to attorneys’ fees, court filings, and could save all parties thousands of dollars and a great deal of administrative headache.
How it works

Timing matters
Peer review is available only before a situation escalates. Once a lawsuit is filed or a complaint goes to the Georgia Board of Dentistry, the case is no longer eligible. If a patient conversation is heading in the wrong direction, mention peer review early.

What peer review covers
Peer review covers disagreements about the appropriateness or quality of care, or about fees, between a GDA member dentist and their patient, for treatment provided within the past two years.

Who’s on the committee: Volunteer GDA members who give their time so their colleagues can resolve problems fairly.

“During my tenure, I have seen firsthand the value of a process often overlooked until a member truly needs it. Peer review is one of the most important—and valuable—benefits of membership in the Georgia Dental Association.” – Dr. Roy McDonald

When peer review isn’t the right fit
  • The dentist isn’t a GDA member
  • Treatment was more than two years ago
  • Someone other than the treating dentist has altered or removed the treatment
  • Litigation has been filed, or a complaint has been submitted to the Georgia Board of Dentistry
  • The request is for damages or punitive action
  • The dispute involves a third-party payer

Questions? Contact Jon Hoin at (404) 636-7553 ext 105.

For patients: If you have a concern about your dental care, call today.