Medical complaint — Styrelsen for Patientklager · Denmark

Direct answer

Start with the complaints officer of the hospital or practice — every provider must have one, and most issues are resolved there with an explanation or apology. If not, Styrelsen for Patientklager (stpk.dk) is the independent body for patient complaints in Denmark: free, and it can investigate. Concerns about a doctor's fitness to practise go to Styrelsen for Patientsikkerhed (stps.dk). For compensation after a treatment error, Patienterstatningen or a lawyer — and ask for your full medical file first, which you are entitled to.

Call firstStyrelsen for Patientklager

Report toStyrelsen for Patientsikkerhed

If that failsPatienterstatningen

🗣️ What to say

"On [date] I was treated at [provider] by [name]. I want to make a formal complaint about [what happened]. I request a written response, and a copy of my complete medical file."

🪜 Step by step

Ask for your fileYou have the right to a copy of your records. Get it before anything else; it is the evidence.
Complaints officer firstIn writing, with dates and names. A response within a set time is mandatory.
Not resolved: Styrelsen for PatientklagerThe patient ombudsman or complaints commission investigates independently and free of charge.
Professional conduct: Styrelsen for PatientsikkerhedThe medical council or disciplinary board deals with the doctor's conduct, not with your compensation.
Compensation: PatienterstatningenLiability claims run through the provider's insurer or a compensation scheme; deadlines apply from the moment you knew of the harm.

📇 All contacts

Styrelsen for PatientklagerHandles complaints about healthcare treatment, freeWithin 2 years of learning about the matter🔗 stpk.dk

Styrelsen for PatientsikkerhedSupervises licensed health professionalsFor concerns about a practitioner's fitness🔗 stps.dk

PatienterstatningenCompensation for treatment injuries without courtWithin 3 years of knowing about the injury🔗 pebl.dk

❓ Frequently asked

Can I switch doctor during the complaint?

Yes, at any time. The complaint does not affect your right to care.

Is there a deadline?

Complaints: usually none, but sooner is stronger. Compensation claims: often 3–5 years from discovery. Ask Styrelsen for Patientklager.

They say the file is "internal"

It is not. Your medical records are yours to read and copy; refusal is itself a complaint for Styrelsen for Patientklager.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

🔎 Common searches

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“complaint about doctor Denmark”
“patient ombudsman Denmark”
“hospital complaint procedure”
“medical error compensation Denmark”
“get my medical records”

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