Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 aims to promote a culture of openness in public bodies by giving members of the public the right to access information held by them. GP practices, although not government owned, are considered to be public bodies for the purposes of this Act. This means that any member of the public (not only patients) can request information from the practice. This right came into force in 2005.
All GP practices are legally required to make certain information available through a Publication Scheme, which may be provided electronically or in paper format. It contains information routinely requested by the public and must follow the ICO Model Publication Scheme for GP Practices approved by the Information Commissioner.
The GP Practice Publication Scheme
Our Publication Scheme requires us to make information available as part of our normal business activities. It includes the seven classes of information defined by the ICO:
- Who we are and what we do
- What we spend and how we spend it
- What our priorities are and how we are doing
- How we make decisions
- Our policies and procedures
- Lists and registers
- The services we offer
Please note: Information relating to individual medical records or clinical details is not available under the Freedom of Information Act. Requests of this type should be made as a Subject Access Request under Data Protection legislation.
Fees
Information included within our Publication Scheme is generally available free of charge.
In some circumstances, a fee may apply — for example, where printed copies or extensive materials are requested. Any such fees are explained within the Publication Scheme document and can be confirmed by reception.
Who Can Request Information?
Under the Freedom of Information Act, any individual worldwide is entitled to request information from the practice.
Applicants are entitled to:
- be informed in writing whether the practice holds the information requested
- receive the information (unless an exemption applies)
How Should Requests Be Made?
Freedom of Information requests must:
- Be made in writing (including email)
- State the name of the applicant
- Provide an address for correspondence
- Include a clear description of the information requested
Please send FOI requests to:
Court Thorn Surgery
Low Hesket
Carlisle
CA4 0HP
For the attention of The Practice Manager
Or by email to: [email protected]
