Critics challenge Vorarlberg patient advocate reform

Plans to make Vorarlberg’s patients’ ombudsman an independent state body have drawn criticism over how the change would work, ORF reported. The reform would replace the private association that currently runs the office.

Most submissions on the draft law welcome its aim of simplifying procedures and avoiding duplication. But the Vorarlberg Medical Chamber, the Chamber of Labour and the patients’ advocate have criticised aspects of the proposal.

The Medical Chamber calls the change a nationalisation of the office and opposes it. Under the plan, its staff would be state employees assigned to the office, with the state retaining authority over their employment.

The Chamber of Labour warns that the state is itself the largest provider of healthcare through its hospital operating company, creating the impression that it would be overseeing itself. Both chambers want the existing supporting association to remain in place.

Critics also object to plans to end the patients’ advocate’s public activity report and to remove a legal qualification as a requirement for the role. The law is due to take effect in 2028.