Healthcare complaints spiralling to record high in Australian state

Healthcare complaints in Australia's New South Wales State have reached record high, a 2015-16 annual report from the Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC) showed Monday.

Up 15 percent from the previous report, the 6,075 complaints were centered on doctors, dentists, nurses, midwives, pharmacists and psychologists.

The most drastic increase was focused on doctors and medical practitioners, with complaints rising 39 percent in the 12-month time frame.

Dissatisfaction with psychologists also rose, increasing 19 percent.

"It shows the New South Wales health and hospital systems are under enormous pressure," New South Wales opposition's health spokesman Walt Secord told the Australian Broadcasting company.

"That's well up from four to five years ago."

Although it is not fully understood what factors have contributed to the growing resentment at the healthcare sector, in their report the HCCC suggested that social media, and a growing and aging population may be part of the reason.

Moreover, patients are taking greater control of their healthcare with more information available through online technologies.

"If this increase is because people are more knowledgeable that they can express concern about treatment, I welcome that," Secord said.

A State Parliamentary inquiry has now been ordered to review the report and its findings. Endit