ABSTRACT
This chapter explores a draft code of practice on openness for NHS trusts, district health authorities, family health services authorities, medical and dental practitioners and pharmacists. It deals with guidance to doctors on advertising and publicizing their services and codes of practice for journalists and broadcasters. The Press Complaints Commission usually deals only with complaints from people and organizations directly affected by the matters about which they complain. Trusts must make available, on request, the register of board members' private interests required under the Code of Accountability for NHS boards, and any information required under the Patient's Charter. District health authorities and family health services authorities are required under the Public Bodies Act I960 to hold all their board meetings in public. District health authorities must consult with the community health council and other interested parties on any proposals which would result in a substantial change in the services which they provide to their residents.
