NHS Tayside Ordered to Release Incorrectly Withheld Information Following FOI Request

POLICY WIRE — Edinburgh, UK — NHS Tayside has been ordered by a regulatory body to release information that it “incorrectly withheld” in response to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted in 2023.

The health board’s failure to provide the requested information has been deemed non-compliant with FOI regulations. The watchdog’s ruling mandates the immediate disclosure of the withheld data.

The FOI request, submitted earlier this year, sought specific information related to NHS Tayside’s operations. The health board initially refused to provide the information, citing unspecified reasons.

Following an appeal, the regulatory body reviewed the case and determined that NHS Tayside had fallen short of its obligations under the FOI Act. The board is now required to release the information promptly.

This ruling underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within public health institutions. It also highlights the role of FOI regulations in ensuring that public bodies are held to account.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)