Can I make a complaint?
Anyone can make a complaint, including:
- the patient who received the health service
- the patient’s parent or guardian
- a relative, friend or representative chosen by the person
- a health service provider
- another health practitioner
- an employer, or
- any other concerned person
What are my rights in the complaint process?
Be treated with respect
Councils expect all communication with the complainants to be respectful.
Be kept informed
The council will tell you:
-
who will be managing the complaint
-
the progress of the complaint
-
about actions taken that affect the practitioner’s registration
-
the outcome of the complaint
Provide additional information
The council may ask you to provide additional information. You can send the council any information you think is appropriate.
Provide feedback to us
We are happy to hear from you if you have any feedback. Please use this form if you have questions or concerns about the policies, procedures, access to information or quality of service of a council or the HPCA.
Can I be sued for making a complaint?
No. If you make a complaint in good faith about something you are genuinely concerned about, you can’t be sued. The Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (NSW) protects you from liability in this circumstance.
Can I withdraw my complaint?
Yes, you can ask a council in writing to withdraw your complaint and you can stop participating in our process. However, if the Council or HCCC believes the complaint has raised significant public health and safety issues, an investigation or process may continue. We will not inform you that we are doing this if you withdraw your complaint.