What is NOT a function of the Health Ombudsman?

The role of the Health Ombudsman primarily involves oversight and regulation of health services, ensuring that both the health system and healthcare practitioners adhere to established standards and regulations. Protecting public health is a fundamental function, as the Ombudsman addresses complaints and concerns regarding health services to safeguard the interests of the public. Maintaining standards is essential to ensure that healthcare providers deliver quality care, which is closely tied to the Ombudsman’s responsibility to oversee compliance with health service regulations.

Imposing penalties can also fall within the purview of the Health Ombudsman, especially in cases where there are serious breaches of conduct or standards by healthcare providers. This enforcement aspect is vital for ensuring accountability within the health sector.

However, providing incentives for healthcare providers is not a function typically associated with the Health Ombudsman. The Ombudsman’s role focuses more on monitoring, investigating, and rectifying issues within the healthcare system rather than incentivizing providers. This differentiation clarifies why the option related to incentives does not align with the core responsibilities of the Health Ombudsman.