During a discipline hearing, what is the role of the panel?

• A. They function as a jury to hear evidence and determine outcomes
• B. They determine clinical guidelines for the profession
• C. They only review written submissions without witnesses
• D. They provide a non-binding advisory opinion

Answer: (A)

In a discipline hearing, the panel acts as the trier of fact, hearing evidence from both sides, weighing witness credibility, and applying the relevant standards to decide whether a professional breach occurred and what sanction, if any, is appropriate. They guide the process, listen to testimony, review documentation, and render binding decisions within the regulatory framework, including any resulting sanctions or orders. This role is distinct from creating clinical guidelines, which are produced by professional bodies, and from merely reviewing written submissions or issuing non-binding opinions, which do not involve weighing evidence and determining disciplinary outcomes.