Using Freedom of Information Requests to Hold the System Accountable

Metadata

• Category: Self-Advocacy
• Tags: FOI request BC, Freedom of Information, accountability mental health, records for advocacy
• SEO Meta Description: How to use BC’s Freedom of Information (FOIPPA) process to request records about policies, complaints, and treatment decisions — a key tool for accountability in mental health care.
• Keywords: FOI request British Columbia, hold doctors accountable records, FOIPPA mental health, access to information BC
• Author: ConsentBC Research Team
• Last Updated: June 2026
• Slug: /resources/using-freedom-of-information-requests

Excerpt Freedom of Information requests let you access not just your own records but also policies, statistics, and decisions made by health authorities. Learn how to use FOI strategically to challenge treatment and push for systemic change.

Full Content

While requesting your personal medical records is important, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPPA) allow you to obtain broader records held by public bodies — including health authorities, hospitals, and government ministries.

This is a powerful accountability tool for ConsentBC supporters and anyone affected by the Mental Health Act.

What You Can Request

• Hospital or health authority policies on “deemed consent,” restraints, or involuntary treatment.
• Statistics on how often certain medications or ECT are used.
• Records of complaints against specific doctors or units (with personal information redacted).
• Internal guidelines or training materials on consent and capacity assessments.
• Data on Review Panel outcomes or extended leave practices.

How to Make an FOI Request

1. Identify the public body (e.g., a specific health authority or the Ministry of Health).
2. Submit a clear written request describing the records you want (be as specific as possible to avoid delays or high fees).
3. Send it to the FOI Coordinator of that organization (most have online forms or dedicated email addresses).
4. Pay any applicable fees (search and preparation time over a certain number of hours may be charged).
5. Receive records within 30 business days (or request an extension explanation).

If records are refused or overly redacted, you can appeal to the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner.

Strategic Tips for Accountability

• Request records before a Review Panel hearing to strengthen your case.
• Use records to support complaints to the College of Physicians and Surgeons.
• Combine FOI requests with personal records for a complete picture.
• Work with advocates or lawyers (e.g., through the Mental Health Law Program) who can help interpret what you receive.

Key Resources

• FOIPPA guide and request process: oipc.bc.ca
• Health authority FOI pages (search “[Health Authority] FOI request”)

Call to Action FOI requests can reveal patterns of practice that affect many people. Contact ConsentBC if you need help wording a request or understanding how records can support reform efforts.