What significant legislation was established following the Cartwright Inquiry?

The Health and Disability Commissioner Act is significant because it was a direct outcome of the Cartwright Inquiry, which highlighted severe deficiencies in the treatment and rights of patients within the New Zealand healthcare system, particularly regarding women's health issues. This inquiry brought to light the need for greater accountability and protection for patients.

The Act established an independent office of the Health and Disability Commissioner, whose primary role is to promote and protect the rights of consumers of health and disability services. It provides a framework for the handling of complaints against health professionals and institutions, ensuring that patients have recourse if their rights are violated. This legislation also mandates the provision of information about patients’ rights, which is critical in empowering individuals within the healthcare system.

In contrast, the other options represent separate areas of legislation that, while important, do not stem directly from the issues raised by the Cartwright Inquiry. They address different aspects of health care, privacy, and rights but do not focus specifically on the systemic changes prompted by the inquiry's findings regarding patient rights and treatment.