Health staff face hundreds of assault, sex claims

New data has revealed dozens of complaints of sexual misconduct, assault and treatment complications have been levelled at staff.

Dozens of complaints of sexual misconduct, assault and treatment complications levelled at Queensland’s health professionals are now being investigated by the state’s Ombudsman.

Investigations have been launched into 41 claims, including one dated as far back as 2016.

According to the Office of the Health Ombudsman, complaints include claims of sexual misconduct by a nurse, illegal actions by a pharmacist and assault by a dentist.

Several investigations have been referred to external agencies, while further information is being sought in others.

The office, which publicly releases details about investigations which are ongoing for more than one year, is the state’s peak health complaint agency.

Half of all claims of wrongdoing were levelled at medical practitioners.

In February, the Health Ombudsman received 848 complaints – with some containing multiple issues.

Professional performance of health staff related to 37 per cent of complaints.

During February 184 people made complaints about inadequate treatment, while 74 complained of unexpected treatment outcomes or complications.

Worryingly, there were 13 complaints about the “competence” of staff.

Half of all claims of wrongdoing were levelled at medical practitioners, followed by nurses and dental practitioners and psychologists.

There were 201 complaints made about incidents in a public hospital, 130 relating to a correctional facility and 63 in a medical centre.

The Office of the Health Ombudsman completed 105 investigations in February, with half requiring no further action.

However, one third of complaints were sent to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency for further action.