The Medical Practitioner Review Panel was established by the Legislature in 1989 to review medical malpractice and health care facility or health maintenance organization privilege cases.

The Panel consists of nine members. Eight members are appointed by the Governor and include four physicians, three consumers of health care services and one hospital administrator. One member is appointed by the State Board of Medical Examiners and is a member of the Board who serves ex officio.

The Medical Practitioner Review Panel meets at least once per month and investigates the information received regarding medical malpractice claims and facility or HMO privilege actions prior to making recommendations to the State Board of Medical Examiners.

Dispositions by the Panel may include recommendations to investigate a matter further, close a matter, initiate a disciplinary action, defer a recommendation pending the outcome of litigation or a disciplinary action at a health care facility or HMO, or refer the practitioner to a focused education or treatment program.