Medical complaint · Croatia

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, Povjerenstvo za zaštitu prava pacijenata (županija) (zdravlje.gov.hr) is the independent body for patient complaints in Croatia: free, and it can investigate. Concerns about a doctor's fitness to practise go to Hrvatska liječnička komora (01 4500 830). For compensation after a treatment error, Zdravstvena inspekcija (Ministarstvo zdravstva) or a lawyer — and ask for your full medical file first, which you are entitled to.

Call firstPovjerenstvo za zaštitu prava pacijenata (županija)

Report toHrvatska liječnička komora

If that failsZdravstvena inspekcija (Ministarstvo zdravstva)

🗣️ 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: Povjerenstvo za zaštitu prava pacijenata (županija)The patient ombudsman or complaints commission investigates independently and free of charge.
Professional conduct: Hrvatska liječnička komoraThe medical council or disciplinary board deals with the doctor's conduct, not with your compensation.
Compensation: Zdravstvena inspekcija (Ministarstvo zdravstva)Liability claims run through the provider's insurer or a compensation scheme; deadlines apply from the moment you knew of the harm.

📇 All contacts

Povjerenstvo za zaštitu prava pacijenata (županija)Examines patient complaints, freeWhen the provider did not resolve the complaint🔗 zdravlje.gov.hr/pristup-informacijama/zastita-prava-pacijenata/1435

Hrvatska liječnička komoraDisciplinary proceedings against doctorsFor concerns about competence or ethics📞 01 4500 830 🔗 www.hlk.hr

Zdravstvena inspekcija (Ministarstvo zdravstva)Supervision of health institutions and workersFor serious cases🔗 zdravlje.gov.hr/o-ministarstvu/djelokrug-1297/zdravstvena-inspekcija/1305

❓ 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 Povjerenstvo za zaštitu prava pacijenata (županija).

They say the file is "internal"

It is not. Your medical records are yours to read and copy; refusal is itself a complaint for Povjerenstvo za zaštitu prava pacijenata (županija).

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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