As a practice that provides general medical services we are legally obliged to make available a publication scheme thus promoting greater openness and accountability.
Should you wish to view this document please contact the Practice Manager.
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.
It is being implemented in two phases – October 2003 and January 2005
From October 2003:
All health organisations in Gloucestershire, including GP surgeries, will provide aPublication 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 Gloucestershire. 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 2018 which protects information identifying an individual.
Under the Data Protection Act 2018 you are entitled to access health records and any other personal information that is held about you.
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 Gloucestershire 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.
The freedom of Information Act covers every public authority and places a legal requirement on them to be open so you can have greater access to the decisions made about your public services.
