New health sector watchdog appointed

Published Friday, 05 January, 2018 at 11:59 AM

Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services
The Honourable Steven Miles

An experienced leader in the Queensland public service has been appointed the new Health Ombudsman.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles today announced Ms Rachel Hunter will take over the role on 5 March 2018.

“Ms Hunter’s 34 year career in the Queensland Government and her leadership, expertise and health sector knowledge will be an asset in a role that is focussed on protecting the health and safety of the general public.

“Ms Hunter is well known in the public service with previous roles as Director-General of the Justice and Attorney-General and Education, Training and Arts departments, and Public Service Commissioner,” Mr Miles said.

“She has extensive experience and is currently Chair of the Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Board and Jobs Queensland and Sheldon College boards, as well as Deputy Chancellor at Griffith University.”

Minister Miles said the Health Ombudsman acts as an independent watchdog for Queensland’s health sector.

“The role is responsible for managing complaints for both the public and private health sectors, relating to both registered and unregistered practitioners.

“That includes investigating issues and, where necessary, taking immediate action to protect the public.

“This is an extremely important role and I am confident Ms Hunter will ensure the health sector is kept transparent, accountable and fair.”

The Office of the Health Ombudsman comprises approximately 132 full-time equivalent employees and operated on an annual budget of $18.56 million in 2016-17.

A total of 25 applications were received and following a rigorous, merit-based recruitment process, Ms Hunter was selected as the recommended candidate.

Ms Hunter will resign from the Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Board prior to commencing in role of Health Ombudsman.

ENDS

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