Independent Review by the Healthcare Commission

The Healthcare Commission took over the second stage, independent review, of the NHS complaints procedure in England from July 30th 2004. How it operates this function has been amended in the 2006 regulations in response to consultation and the continued review of the complaints process as a result of the Shipman Inquiry. (external link).  The Department of Health will shortly be issuing a consultation paper with proposals for a new complaints system. The intention is to create a system which delivers a stronger voice for patients, in line with the overall objectives of the Government’s public sector reform programme.

Local resolution must be completed

Who can complain?

What type of complaints does the Healthcare Commission review?

Complaints about care provided in the independent sector and funded privately

Foundation Trust complaints and the Healthcare Commission

Key stages of the Healthcare Commission complaints process