Independent review by the Health Service Ombudsman (HSC)
The Health Service Ombudsman looks into complaints made by or on behalf of people who have suffered because of unsatisfactory treatment or service by the National Health Service (NHS). She is completely independent of the NHS and the government. Her services are free.
HSC's role and powers are defined by Act of Parliament: at present the Health Service Commissioners Act 1993 (external link) as amended by the Health Authorities Act 1995 (external link) and the Health Service Commissioners (Amendment) Act 1996 (external link) and the Health Service Commissioners (Amendment) Act 2000. (external link)
Procedural guidance for the Health Service Ombudsman (external link)
The Ombudsman also looks into complaints against private health providers, but only if the treatment was funded by the NHS. She can also investigate complaints about other services provided on behalf of the NHS.
The Health Service Ombudsman review stage applies to NHS Foundation Trusts.
Not all the special health authorities - for example, NICE and NHS Direct - are in the Ombudsman's remit.
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