Figures released today by the Office of the Health Ombudsman (OHO) show 232 health service complaints made in July are being dealt with by the newly established health service complaints agency.

The OHO, which replaced the former Health Quality Complaints Commission (HQCC) on 1 July, is the single entry point for all complaints about health services and health service providers in Queensland.

As part of the switch to the new complaints management system, 289 matters were transitioned from the HQCC to the OHO for management.

Health Ombudsman Leon Atkinson-MacEwen said increased powers under the Health Ombudsman Act 2013 meant the OHO could investigate complaints made against public and private health service organisations, as well as registered and non-registered health practitioners.

“We aim to resolve complaints in the most timely and appropriate way, based on detailed information and evidence that we independently and impartially assess and analyse. Resolutions can take many forms, but we pride ourselves on making decisions that are informed and fair,” Mr Atkinson-MacEwen said.

Mr Atkinson-MacEwen said he wasn’t surprised that nearly half of all complaints and enquiries were made over the phone.

“Our phone number, 133 OHO (133 646), is easy to remember and our team of experienced staff are trained to explain to complainants what is required of them, and can assist them every step of the way through the complaints process.

“Many people are also making use of our online health service complaint form, along with email and letters.”

For more on the OHO’s performance in July, or for information on the office and how to make a health service complaint, visit www.oho.qld.gov.au.

To make a complaint about a health service provider, or any aspect of a health service provided anywhere in Queensland, contact the OHO on:

• Phone: 133 OHO (133 646)
• Email: complaints@oho.qld.gov.au
• Online: www.oho.qld.gov.au
• Post: PO Box 13281 George Street, Brisbane Qld 4003
• Fax: 3319 6350
• In person: call 133 OHO (133 646) to make an appointment to speak with an OHO staff at the Brisbane office.

Media contact:

media@oho.qld.gov.au 0427 483 656