Freedom of Information Act 2000

The Freedom of Information Act applies to all NHS bodies, including hospitals, as well as to doctors, dentists, pharmacists and opticians.  It specifically includes any person providing general medical or personal medical services under the National Health Service Act.  

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Data Protection Act 1998 are intended to operate in tandem. Requests for access to personal information will be dealt with under the provisions of the Data Protection Act, while requests for access to other sorts of information will be dealt with under the Freedom of Information Act.

All disclosures are protected by:

• The Freedom of Information Act exemptions
• The Data Protection Act, which protects personal data from any  third party disclosure without consent
• The Human Rights Act which requires respect for the privacy of individuals
• The common law on confidentiality

A doctor's disclosures are also subject to the duties of a GMC registered doctor to:

• Make the care of patients their first concern 
• Respect and protect confidential information  
• Respect patients dignity and privacy 
• Work with colleagues in the way that best serves patients' interest
• Be prepared to justify their actions to patients and colleagues 

More information and detail here

CED/FS summer 08

Freedom of Information (Model Publication)            

• Most GPs are now required to operate a publication scheme under the FIOA 2000

• Model provided by the information commissioner here

• Guidance and info here

• Worked example of model template here

FS Dec 08