The number of complaints about treatment received from the National Health Service in Scotland has risen.

In his first annual report for Scotland since devolution, health service ombudsman Michael Buckley said most of the complaints related to matters of clinical judgement.

Poor dental treatment was top of the list along with allegations of NHS trusts mishandling grievances by patients.

In total, 215 complaints were made against NHS bodies and practitioners during the year 1999-2000.

Nineteen were investigated and 11 upheld.

Although the powers of the ombudsman are limited he can recommend compensation for patients.

In extreme circumstances he can refer cases to the General Medical Council.