19 Nov 2013

New high for health and disability complaints

7:23 pm on 19 November 2013

The number of complaints to the Health and Disability Commissioner about health services have set a new record.

In his annual report, the Commissioner Anthony Hill says his office received more complaints than ever before.

He says it is pleasing, however, to see providers respond positively and make significant changes.

In the year to June, his office received 1619 complaints - a 4% increase on the previous year and a 15% increase in the last two years.

Of the 60 formal investigations, the office found the complainant's rights had been breached in 42.