Medical complaint · the UK

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, Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) (0345 015 4033) is the independent body for patient complaints in the UK: free, and it can investigate. Concerns about a doctor's fitness to practise go to General Medical Council (GMC) (0161 923 6602). For compensation after a treatment error, NHS Resolution / a clinical negligence solicitor or a lawyer — and ask for your full medical file first, which you are entitled to.

Call firstParliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO)

Report toGeneral Medical Council (GMC)

If that failsNHS Resolution / a clinical negligence solicitor

🗣️ 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: Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO)The patient ombudsman or complaints commission investigates independently and free of charge.
Professional conduct: General Medical Council (GMC)The medical council or disciplinary board deals with the doctor's conduct, not with your compensation.
Compensation: NHS Resolution / a clinical negligence solicitorLiability claims run through the provider's insurer or a compensation scheme; deadlines apply from the moment you knew of the harm.

📇 All contacts

Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO)Independent review of NHS complaints in England (Scotland: SPSO, Wales: PSOW, NI: NIPSO)After the provider's final response📞 0345 015 4033 🔗 www.ombudsman.org.uk

General Medical Council (GMC)Fitness to practise, doctor conductFor concerns about a doctor's conduct or competence📞 0161 923 6602 🔗 www.gmc-uk.org

NHS Resolution / a clinical negligence solicitorCompensation for treatment errorsWithin 3 years of knowing about the harm🔗 resolution.nhs.uk

❓ 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 Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO).

They say the file is "internal"

It is not. Your medical records are yours to read and copy; refusal is itself a complaint for Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO).

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

🔎 Common searches

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“complaint about doctor the UK”
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🏥 I have a complaint about a doctor or hospital — who do I go to?