Investigating Complaints

The HCSCC is only likely to investigate a complaint using statutory powers of:

• it is not suitable for informal resolution or conciliation, eg. the patients may be at imminent risk, or serious misconduct is alleged;
• conciliation has been declined or failed and further investigation is warranted;
• it appears to raise a significant question as to the practice of the provider; or
• it appears to raise a significant issue of public health or safety or public interest.

The HCSCC has wide powers during the investigation process and may propose remedies, or make recommendations which are usually furnished in a report. A notice of the investigation findings is provided to the complainant and the appropriate provider or body able to implement the actions.

Any information, documents, reports, etc produced as a result of an investigation cannot be used for any other purposes, eg. as evidence in a court of law.