Health & Disability Commission

Everyone using a health and disability service has the protection of the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumer Rights. An independent Commissioner promotes and protects these rights under the Health and Disability Commissioner Act 1994. Independent Advocates are also available to support consumers to uphold their rights under the act.

You have the following rights when you are receiving a Health or Disability Service:

Respect Fair Treatment Dignity and Independence Appropriate Standards Effective Communication

Information Choice and Consent Support Rights during Teaching & Research Have your complaint taken seriously

 Unhappy with the service….you can take action!

You can take action if you are unhappy about the service you received from a health or disability service provider by:

• Take your concerns directly to the person or Organisation that provided the service
• Get help and support from friends, family or whanau to raise your concerns with the provider
• Seek the support of an advocate to help you to resolve your concerns

What does an Advocate do for you?  

• Listens to your concerns
• Gives you information about your rights
• Helps you identify and clarify issues
• Helps you to explore the options available to assist you to resolve each issue
• Supports you in the actions you take to resolve your concerns.

To find a local Advocate service contact on of the following toll free numbers or visit the Health & Disability Commision website.

The Advocacy Service is:

• Free: There is no charge as the service is funded under the Health & Disability Commissioner Act 1994.
• Independent: Advocates are employed by services independent of health & disability service providers (eg: GP’s, physio, nurses etc) and funders and from government agencies.
• Confidential: Advocates will keep your information confidential.
•  On the side of the consumer: An advocate will support consumers who believe their rights under the Code of Rights have been breeched.
• Available to give presentations: Advocates are available to give free presentations to both consumer & provider groups, on Advocacy, the Health & Disability Commissioner, and The Code of Rights.

This information is from the ‘Having a problem with a health or disability service? Call your local Advocate’ pamphlet which is produced by the HDC.

This information and more on the Code of Rights is available from your Health & Disability Service Provider, your Advocate or from the Health & Disability Commission.

You can contact the Health & Disability Commission on 0800 11 22 33 or visit their Website at www.hdc.org.nz.