California CodesBusiness and Professions Code - BPCDivision 2 — Healing ArtsChapter 1 — General ProvisionsArticle 11 — Professional ReportingSection 809.05

It is the policy of this state that peer review be performed by licentiates. This policy is subject to the following limitations:

(a) The governing bodies of acute care hospitals have a legitimate function in the peer review process. In all peer review matters, the governing body shall give great weight to the actions of peer review bodies and, in no event, shall act in an arbitrary or capricious manner.

(b) In those instances in which the peer review body’s failure to investigate, or initiate disciplinary action, is contrary to the weight of the evidence, the governing body shall have the authority to direct the peer review body to initiate an investigation or a disciplinary action, but only after consultation with the peer review body. No such action shall be taken in an unreasonable manner.

(c) In the event the peer review body fails to take action in response to a direction from the governing body, the governing body shall have the authority to take action against a licentiate. Such action shall only be taken after written notice to the peer review body and shall fully comply with the procedures and rules applicable to peer review proceedings established by Sections 809.1 to 809.6, inclusive.

(d) A governing body and the medical staff shall act exclusively in the interest of maintaining and enhancing quality patient care.

(e) It is not the intent or purpose of this section to prohibit or discourage public members on state licensing boards and medical quality review committees from participating in disciplinary actions as authorized by law.