Complaints and investigations
Finding out someone has made a complaint against you will never be a good feeling, no matter how long you’ve been on the job.
A complaint may be made for reasons including:
- not meeting patient expectations
- being culturally insensitive
- negligence
- malpractice
A verbal or written complaint could come from the patient or a member of their whānau; or by Medsafe or MCNZ. It could be justified, partly justified, or even entirely unjustified, and it may or may not be the fault of the GP. However, it is important to respond to every complaint promptly and professionally.
In the first instance let your teacher and your medical educator know of the complaint. They will be able to help you navigate through the concern. Your medical educator will advise the College if it is something of concern. Each complaint will be assessed individually and could result in additional teaching support or adjustments to your learning plan, or in serious situations could result in you having to leave the programme.
When a complaint has been laid by Medsafe, and/or a complaint has been referred to MCNZ it is your responsibility to notify the College providing as much information as possible as soon as is practicable.