1. WHAT IS “ACCESS TO INFORMATION”?

Access to information is the right to a formal process for seeing or obtaining copies of records held by public sector bodies. In Manitoba, public sector bodies include provincial and municipal government, regional health authorities, school divisions and universities.

2. WHERE ARE THESE ACCESS RIGHTS FOUND?

Two laws in Manitoba set out access to information rights: The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and The Personal Health Information Act (PHIA).

Print versions of FIPPA and PHIA can be purchased from the Statutory Publications Office, 20-200 Vaughan Street, Winnipeg, 945-3101 or 1-800-321-1203 (in Manitoba).

3. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN USING FIPPA AND PHIA?

PHIA is available when you are seeking access to your own personal health information from a public sector body or health professional. In certain situations, a person’s representative can seek access to the person’s health information.

FIPPA is available when you are seeking access to general information or your own personal information (except your own personal health information) held by a public sector body.  In certain situations, a person’s representative can seek access to information for the person.

4. IS FIPPA OR PHIA NEEDED TO OBTAIN ACCESS TO RECORDS?

Not necessarily. Public sector bodies may disclose certain records without the need of FIPPA or PHIA. Sometimes a different law may provide access. Examples of such laws are The Municipal Act for access to municipal records and The Public Schools Act for access to student records.

5. WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ABOUT USING FIPPA OR PHIA?

About FIPPA, contact Access and Privacy Services, Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism at 945-3738 or 1-800-617-3588 (in Manitoba).

About PHIA, contact Legislative Unit, Manitoba Health at 788-6612.

About FIPPA or PHIA, contact Manitoba Ombudsman at 982-9130 or 1-800-665-0531 (in Manitoba)

Manitoba Ombudsman, June 2007