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Complaints & escalation Guide 002

The Office of the Health Ombudsman

What the Office of the Health Ombudsman (OHO) does, how to prepare before you lodge a complaint, and what might happen next.

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At a glance

  • The OHO receives and assesses complaints about health services and practitioners in Queensland.
  • Prepare a timeline and supporting documents before you lodge.
  • Complaints may be referred, resolved, assessed further or investigated.

What is the OHO?

The Office of the Health Ombudsman (OHO) receives and assesses complaints about health services and health practitioners in Queensland. It is independent of hospitals and health services.

Before you lodge

A well-prepared complaint is easier to assess.

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Possible outcomes

Depending on the circumstances, your complaint may be referred to another organisation, resolved, assessed further or investigated.

Quick checklist

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Contact the OHO

Want a hand with this?

We can help you understand the pathways available, organise your information and point you to the right organisations. We can't give medical or legal advice, but you don't have to work it out alone.

General information only. This guide is not medical or legal advice — seek professional advice for your circumstances. In an emergency, call 000.