News
Commissioner marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Published: 1 December 2022
The Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner says health and disability services must be responsive to the needs and aspirations of disabled people and tāngata whaikaha.
Aged Care Commissioner welcomes pay increases for aged care staff
Published: 28 November 2022
The Aged Care Commissioner says pay parity for frontline community workers – many of whom work in aged care facilities – is long overdue and welcome.
HDC launches online modules for health and disability service providers
Published: 17 November 2022HDC has launched a new series of online learning modules designed to support providers’ working knowledge and understanding of the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights, and improve their management of complaints.
HDC Newsletter - September 2022
Published: 19 September 2022
HDC's stakeholder newsletter, sharing news and issues of interest with the health, social and government sector.
In this issue: Unprecedented rise in complaints; Overview of trends in COVID-19 complaints; Collective action needed says Aged Care Commissioner; Case study: Critical assessment vital when patients present on multiple occasions with the same symptoms.
World Patient Safety Day — 17 September 2022
Safe medication practices vital to ensure safety and wellbeing of older people
Published: 12 September 202217 September marks World Patient Safety Day, created by the World Health Organization to inspire countries to prioritise patient safety in their healthcare systems. The Aged Care Commissioner is calling for patients, families, whânau, caregivers, communities, healthcare workers, and providers to show their commitment to safe medication practices for older people.
Rise in complaints unprecedented
Published: 3 August 2022
Health and Disability Commissioner, Morag McDowell shares her views on the significant pressures currently facing New Zealand's health and disability sector.
Complaints to HDC involving DHBs July-December 2021
Published: 1 August 2022
HDC’s six-monthly DHB complaint report detailing the trends in complaints received by HDC about DHBs between 1 July and 31 December 2021.
Collective action needed says Aged Care Commissioner
Published: 29 July 2022Events over the past four months, since I took on my role in the Office of the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) have reinforced the important contribution I have to make as Aged Care Commissioner. I am here to protect older people’s rights, advocate for change and make sure they get the best, most appropriate health and disability services.