Scheduling Investigations

5500.4 - Scheduling Investigations (Rev. 234; Issued: 09-12-25; Effective: 09-12-25; Implementation: 09-12-25) The SA investigates complaints involving possible immediate jeopardy (IJ) within three working days of receiving the complaint and focuses on the specific problem area. The SA should notify CMS of a possible IJ complaint. Otherwise, the SA follows procedures for prioritizing and investigating certification-related complaints within 45 days. Laboratories with complaints pending are identified and given priority in scheduling of regular certification surveys.