Health concerns

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 404, 17 September 1991, Page 11

Health concerns

Giving people with health concerns somewhere to turn to is the job of health consumer relations officer Pam Stent. She aims to listen to comments from people in the service or on treatment they receive from the Area Health Board; discuss enquiries in a confidential and non threatening way; arrange home visits; assist with the preparation of written formal complaints; and arrange prompt responses to issues raised. The thrust behind the service is communication, linking the users of the services with the providers. Encouraging consumers to comment on services or treatment provided, to seek information, to discuss con-

cerns and to express both appreciation or dissatisfaction are also goals. Mrs Stent sets out how to go about complaining in her pamphlet, although she says the emphasis in not on it being a "complaints department". She says you should first ask to see the charge nurse of your ward; then if not satisfied ask to see the service manager; or freephone 0800 80 1444, or write to Pam Stent, Health Consumer Relations Officer, Wanganui Base Hospital, Private Bag, Wanganui. If you are still not satisfied you can write to the General Manager, Manawatu Wanganui Area Health Board, Box 2056, Palmerston North.