What is FIPPA?
Answer. FIPPA stands for the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. As of January 1, 2012, hospitals will be designated as institutions under FIPPA so that, after that date anyone has the right to make a request for access to a wide range of information held by hospitals.
What is the purpose of FIPPA?
FIPPA has two main purposes: granting access to information and protecting the privacy of individuals.
- Access – The purpose of FIPPA is to provide a right of access to information in the custody or under the control of institutions.
- Privacy – FIPPA protects the privacy of individuals with respect to personal information about themselves held by institutions and provides individuals with a right of access to the information. These concepts are similar to those the hospital already employs with respect to personal health information under the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004.
What kind of information can be accessed under FIPPA?
FIPPA provides access to information that is recorded, or that can be made into a record, whether in print, audio or electronic form that came into the custody or control of Woodstock Hospital on or after January 1, 2007.
Who can make a FIPPA request?
Anyone can make a FIPPA request. The requester does not have to live in Ontario—or even in Canada. The requester does not need to be a Canadian citizen.
- General Records Request – Any person can request access to general records. A person includes individuals and organizations, such as corporations, partnerships and sole proprietorships.
- Request for One’s own information – Only an individual (or his/her personal representative) can make a personal information request for access to his/her own personal information.
How do I make a FIPPA request?
All FIPPA requests must be submitted in writing and accompanied by a fee of $5.00 to the Freedom of Information Coordinator. Please see Making a FIPPA Request and Fees Section.
Is the requestor required to provide a reason for his/her request?
Answer. The requestor has no obligation to provide reasons for the request however, the requestor may be asked the purpose of the request to assist in identifying the specific records that the requestor is looking for.
When can I expect a response to a FIPPA request?
FIPPA legislation requires the hospital to respond within 30 days. In most cases, you will receive a written response to your FIPPA request within 30 days after the request was received.
How can I learn more about FIPPA?
Please visit either of these site for more information: www.mgs.gov.on.ca