What is the Freedom of Information Act
2000 and what does it mean?
The Act was passed on 30 November 2000.
Its purpose is to give everyone greater rights of access to information
about how public authorities work. This means you will be able to ask to
see almost all information held by public authorities.
All health organisations in Oxfordshire, including GP surgeries, will
provide a Publication Scheme, which lists the information that is
currently available to the public e.g. Minutes of Board meetings, Annual
Reports and policies.
How will I be able to do this?
From October 2003 you will be able to look at the Publication Schemes
for all of the NHS organisations in Oxfordshire. The Publication Schemes
will be divided into categories, known as Classes, to make them easier
to understand and where possible will direct you straight to the
information you need.
Where can I find the Publication Schemes?
Publication Schemes will be published on the internet allowing you to
download the information you want directly.
If you do not have access to the Internet you will be able to look at a
copy in local libraries, hospital libraries and at local GP surgeries.
You can also contact any of the Publication Scheme Co-ordinators
directly for further information. (Contact details are at the bottom of
this page.)
How do I get the information I want?
By looking on the internet or by writing to the FOI Publication Scheme
Co-ordinator for each organisation or surgery.
Details of how to obtain the information or documents you want will also
be included in the Publication Scheme.
Is there any information I will not be able to see?
We have to take into account that some of the material may have to be
exempt from disclosure. This is because of legislation such as the Data
Protection Act 1998 which protects information identifying an
individual.
Under the Data Protection Act 1998 you are entitled to access health
records and any other personal information that is held about you.
For more information see:
www.informationcommissioner.gov.uk
What if the information you want isn't on the Publication Scheme?
The local health community operates a Code of Practice on Openness in
the NHS which aims to ensure that people have access to available
information about the services provided by the NHS. People can request
information from their local Hospital or Primary Care Trust or the
Oxfordshire Partnership Trust.
When Individual Rights of Access are implemented in January 2005 you
will be able to ask about any information and, subject to exemptions,
you will have a right to be told if that information exists and if you
have a right to see it.
Useful website addresses:
