Can I sue a doctor for medical negligence in New Zealand?

General information from Lawmateanz

Generally, no. In New Zealand, injuries caused by medical treatment are usually covered by ACC as a 'treatment injury', and you can't sue for compensation for an injury ACC covers.

ACC can pay for treatment, weekly compensation and support, whether or not anyone was at fault. You make a treatment injury claim through a health provider.

Separately, you can complain about the care you received to the Health and Disability Commissioner, which can investigate and make findings and recommendations.

If ACC declines your treatment injury claim, you can ask for a review within three months. Free advocacy services can help.

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