What are the lay board member's duties regarding complaints about podiatric physicians?

• A. Issuing licenses
• B. Reviewing, investigating and disposing of written complaints regarding the conduct of podiatric physicians
• C. Enforcing patient billing
• D. Providing medical care to patients

Answer: (B)

The key concept is public oversight in disciplinary matters—the lay board member helps ensure complaints about podiatric physicians are handled properly to protect the public. Their role is to review written complaints, participate in the investigation as needed, and help determine the disposition of the case, which can range from dismissal to referral for formal discipline. This function focuses on professional conduct and public safety, not on granting licenses, collecting debts, or providing medical care. Licensing and credentialing are handled through other board processes, while enforcing patient billing is outside the complaint-handling scope. Providing medical care is the physician’s job, not the lay member’s.