To protect and promote the health and safety of users of health services by considering, investigating and disposing of complaints in the national health system (private and public health establishments) relating to non-compliance with prescribed norms and standards and ‘contribute towards a development of public service culture characterized by fairness, dedication, commitment, openness, accountability and the promotion of the right to good public administration’

The Act directs the Health Ombud to perform his functions “in good faith and without fear, favour, bias or prejudice”. The Act also provides the Health Ombud (and OHSC staff assisting the Ombud) with powers to facilitate thorough investigation.