Private Health Insurance Ombudsman

The Private Health Insurance Ombudsman is an Australian Government agency but acts independently of the government in investigating complaints involving private health insurance and reporting. The role and functions of the office are contained in Sections 230- 256 of the Private Health Insurance Act 2007.

The office protects the interests of people who are covered by private health insurance by investigating complaints and assisting in the resolution of complaints. It also publishes independent information about private health insurance and the performance of health funds. According to the Australian Government's website, the ombudsman "provides private health insurance members with an independent service for health insurance problems and enquiries."

The office has stated that it expects to fulfill this role by handling complaints in a high quality manner; by providing information and advice to consumers; and by providing information, advice, and recommendations to the Government.