Official opening of Office of Health Review

October 24, 1996

The newly-established Office of Health Review has already resolved some public complaints about a wide range of health issues in Western Australia, according to Health Minister Kevin Prince.

The office, which was officially opened today by Mr Prince, has received 124 complaints since September this year - of which 16 cases have been resolved.

Mr Prince said the complaints ranged from issues of inadequate treatment, information and diagnosis to unsatisfactory billing practices and access to surgery.

"I am pleased to say that the office is already achieving great success in its impartial and independent capacity to deal with grievances about a wide range of health issues," he said.

"The Office of Health Review has already been able to, and will continue to deal with grievances covering anything from ambulance services and speech pathologists, to diagnosis and treatment, immunisation programs and medical research."

Mr Prince said that while both health providers and consumers had responded positively to the Office of Health Review, its establishment was not an admission that the State's health system was fraught with problems.

"The need for the office reflects the growing maturity of consumers," he said.

"They are now much more aware of their rights and prepared to exercise them, as are health providers, who are increasingly accepting their responsibility to provide a high quality service and response to dissatisfied clients."

The office expects to receive 3,000 inquiries and 1,500 health complaints in its first year.

"These figures are comparable with other States and I am informed that these estimates would represent roughly one or two complaints for every 10,000 health services provided annually in Western Australia," Mr Prince said.

"Ideally the outcome will be improved health services and better communication between providers and consumers."

'A Consumer's Guide To Making A Complaint About A Health Service' pamphlet will be distributed to State libraries and community service centres.

The Office of Health Review will also undertake visits to regional centres.

Complaints can be lodged at the Office of Health Review, 7th Floor, 469 Wellington Street, Perth or by telephoning (09) 264 8388.

Media contact: Kirsten Stoney 366 0300