Patient Ombudsman Releases 2024/2025 Annual Report

Patient Ombudsman has released its 2024/25 Annual Report, providing an overview of the growing concerns raised by patients, caregivers, and families across Ontario’s health system. The report highlights rising complaint volumes, identifies key areas where patients continue to experience challenges, and outlines how these issues are informing ongoing improvements.

The office also continues to expand its use of trauma-informed approaches, ensuring patients and families receive more compassionate and supportive assistance when navigating complaints.

Key Findings from the 2024/25 Report

Last year, Patient Ombudsman:

• Resolved more than 4,800 complaints

• Completed six investigations

• Issued over 40 recommendations to health care organizations

• Updated the status of recommendations dating back to 2018

The report identifies several key issues across Ontario’s health system, including:

• Challenges with coordinated hospital discharge

• Concerns about the use of force and restraints

• Ongoing issues in emergency departments and in obstetrical/gynecological care

These themes highlight persistent gaps in communication, care transitions, and patient safety—areas that have significant impact on older adults, caregivers, and long-term care residents.

Read the Reports

• Patient Ombudsman Year 9 Summary Report
• 2024/2025 Annual Report (PDF)