The Decision Process

Writing the Decision

After the hearing, the hearing panel meets to make a decision on the appeal. A decision is drafted by the hearing panel and once the hearing panel members are satisfied with the content of the written decision document, a final decision is issued and a panel member, usually the hearing chair, signs the decision document.

Sharing the Decision with the Parties

All Appeals Commission decisions, including the reasons for the decision, are communicated in writing. The Appeals Commission, by its own rules, is required to issue written reasons for its decisions on all appeal issues. The Commission cannot release any information about the decision before it has been finalized and sent to the parties.

The Appeals Commission sends a copy of the decision document to each of the parties to the appeal. The decision document is normally sent by mail.

Delays in Decisions

Delays in decisions may occur. Sometimes after a hearing, the hearing panel may feel that they need more information (e.g., additional medical reports) to make a decision on an appeal issue. If this is the case, the panel will request the information and will communicate the reason for this delay with the parties. Once the information is received, it is shared with the parties that participated in the appeal hearing. The parties then have an opportunity to respond prior to the panel making a final decision. This process may increase the time it takes to come to a decision.

Average Time Frame for a Decision

Although each appeal is different, it normally takes 4 - 6 weeks from the date of the hearing to when the final decision document is sent to the parties.