Raising a concern - what you need to know

As a member of the public, employer, colleague, or health practitioner, you may become concerned about a medical radiation technologist’s competence or conduct. In certain cases, you may wish to notify the Board of your concern.

Before referring the matter to the Board

It's worth considering the following:

• Have you discussed your concerns with the practitioner?
• Was it a one-off incident or is a pattern emerging? ie failed to check a patient’s ID on multiple occasions.
• Was it a minor incident or a serious departure from accepted medical practise? If it was a departure, did the practitioner have an acceptable explanation?
• Has there been a recent change in their behaviour or ability? If so, a health issue could be affecting their performance.

Concern and complaint categories

Concerns and complaints about practitioners fall into one of three categories:

• Competence – is there an education/training gap?
• Health  – is there a physical or mental health issue preventing the practitioner from being competent?
• Conduct – has there been a breach of professionalism, safe practice, or misconduct?

When making a complaint, it's important to note

• Your complaint must be made in writing.
• The Board is unable to accept anonymous complaints in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
• A copy of your complaint will be sent to the practitioner concerned, and they will have the right to reply. This ensures the Board acts in accordance with the principles of natural justice and fulfils our obligations under the Privacy Act 2020.
• As a registered health practitioner, you have a professional/ethical obligation to raise a concern if another practitioner’s alleged conduct impacts on public safety.

If you’re unsure about raising a formal concern and would like to discuss this before completing the Raise a concern form, please contact pro-standards@medsci.co.nz

Please complete the Raise a Concern form available on our website or via your practitioner portal to make a complaint directly to the Board. To get in touch please email pro-standards@medsci.co.nz

Raising a concern is also referred to as ‘notification(s)’ and/or complaint.