PUBLIC HEALTH ACT 2005 - SECT 81 Disclosure of confidential information in the public interest

PUBLIC HEALTH ACT 2005 - SECT 81

81 Disclosure of confidential information in the public interest

(1) Section 77 (1) does not apply to the disclosure of confidential information by a relevant person if—

(a) the chief executive believes, on reasonable grounds, the disclosure is in the public interest; and

(b) the chief executive has, in writing, authorised the disclosure.

(2) The department’s annual report for a financial year under the Financial Accountability Act 2009 must include details of—

(a) the nature of any confidential information disclosed under subsection (1) during the financial year; and

(b) the purpose for which the confidential information was disclosed.

(3) However, the details mentioned in subsection (2) (a) must not identify, directly or indirectly, the person to whom the confidential information relates.

(4) Despite section 455 , the chief executive may delegate the chief executive’s powers under this section only to—

(a) the chief health officer; or

(b) another person who—

(i) is a public service officer or public service employee, or a health service employee; and

(ii) the chief executive is satisfied has the expertise or experience in public health issues necessary to exercise the powers.