I can investigate both the Health Services and the Personal Social Services. I can also investigate complaints about the private health care sector but only where the HPSS is funding the treatment. I have been given the power to investigate complaints arising from both the administrative actions of Health Service organisations (e.g. Trusts, Boards, etc.) and the exercise of clinical judgement by health care professionals. I do not get involved in cases of medical negligence nor claims for compensation, as these are matters which properly lie with the Courts.

Before becoming involved, I normally expect complainants to have used and exhausted the Health Service Complaints Procedure. This involves an opportunity for Local Resolution and, if this is not successful, an Independent Review by the relevant Health and Social Service Board.

I will generally not investigate a complaint about the health service if the action complained of took place more than 12 months ago.