DHB Board Office
15 Shea Terrace
Takapuna, Auckland 0622
Private Bag 93-503, Takapuna
North Shore City 0740
Telephone: 09 486 8900
Facsimile: 09 486 8924
www.waitematadhb.govt.nz
9 July 2020
Amy S Van Wey Lovatt
[FYI request #12922 email]
Dear Amy
Re: OIA request – DHB policy regarding the reporting of unsafe or criminal behaviour
Thank you for your Official Information Act request which was partially transferred by the
Ministry of Health (MoH) to Waitematā District Health Board (DHB) on 23 June seeking
information about our policies regarding the reporting of unsafe or criminal behaviour.
Before responding to your specific questions, it may be useful to provide some context about
our services.
Waitematā DHB serves a population of more than 630,000 across the North Shore, Waitakere
and Rodney areas, the largest and one of the most rapidly growing DHBs in the country. We are
the largest employer in the district, employing around 7,500 people across more than 80
locations.
In addition to providing services to our own population, we are also the metropolitan Auckland
provider of forensic psychiatry, child disability services, child community dental services and
community alcohol and drug services.
In response to your request, we are able to provide the fol owing information:
1. I was quite concerned and perplexed by the response I received from the MoH dated 16
June 2020 in regards to my OIA request for incident reporting by DHBs. According to Right 4,
clause 2, of the Health and Disability Commissioner (Code of Health and Disability Services
Consumers' Rights) Regulations 1996: Every consumer has the right to have services provided
that comply with legal, professional, ethical, and other relevant standards.
New Zealand Medical Association has provided the Code of Ethics which outlines the
professional behaviour that every NZ medical practitioner is supposed to adhere to. Clause
34 of the Code of Ethics states: Doctors have a general responsibility for the safety of
patients and should therefore take appropriate steps to ensure unsafe or unethical practices
on the part of col eagues are curtailed and/or reported to relevant authorities without delay.
Thus, if there is a legislative requirement that medical practitioners adhere to the "ethical
standards", then they must adhere to the NZMA Code of Ethics. In order to comply with the
Code of Ethics, doctors must be made aware of the relevant authority in which they must,
without delay, report "unsafe or unethical practices on the part of col eagues". The Ministry
of Health is ultimately responsible for al DHBs and thus is ultimately responsible to ensure
that al doctors working in DHB's are aware of the "relevant authorities" that they must
report to, as required by statute.
[Question 2 transferred to DHBs, below.]*
If you need to consult with the State Services Commissioner, or any other agency, for
additional information as to the lawful requirements, standards, and best practices that
DHBs, as State Services, must adhere to with regards to Integrity and Conduct, then I would
be happy to provide the MoH with additional time to find the requested information.
The MoH will respond to this aspect of your request.
*2. Thus, again, I reiterate my request. I respectful y request a list of al of the "relevant
authorities" to which physicians must report "unsafe or unethical practices", with the
understanding that criminal behaviour would be included under either "unsafe or unethical
practices”.
I also request a copy of al DHB policies in regards to reporting unsafe, harmful, criminal
behaviour, including the re-routing and interception of private communications, and policies
on how they document such incidents and how they are to safeguard against such incidents,
as the Operational Framework does indeed require every DHB to have such policies.
Waitemata DHB’s Health Practitioner Competence Assurance Expectations policy
(Attachment
1) covers the reporting of concerns about the practice of health professionals, including
medical practitioners – please refer to.
Waitematā DHB also has a Fraud Monitoring and Management policy
(Attachment 2) covers
the procedures in an investigation of theft or fraud and the reporting of appropriate cases to
the Police, Serious Fraud Office or Auditor General.
Our Internet & Email Use policy
(Attachment 3) states that while security and confidentiality of
information cannot be guaranteed when using email, any breach, or suspected breach, must be
reported and disciplinary action may be taken.
Medical practitioners are required by the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003
to report any concerns about unethical or unsafe practices on the part of another medical
practitioner to the Medical Council of New Zealand. Concerns regarding conduct which may be
criminal are reported to the Police. The Medical Council of New Zealand’s current standards for
conduct and professionalism and conduct and competence concerns can be found at:
https://www.mcnz.org.nz/our-standards/current-standards/conduct-and-professionalism/
https://www.mcnz.org.nz/our-standards/fitness-to-practise/conduct-and-competence-
concerns/
Yours sincerely
Dr Jonathan Christiansen
Chief Medical Officer
Waitematā District Health Board
2
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Attachment 1
Waitematā DHB Management
Professional
Health Practitioner Competence Assurance Expectations
Contents
1.
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 1
2.
Key requirements...................................................................................................................... 1
3.
Scope of Practice....................................................................................................................... 1
4.
Competence assessment ........................................................................................................... 2
5.
Change in external scope of practice ......................................................................................... 2
6.
Record keeping ......................................................................................................................... 2
6.1
Protected Quality Assurance................................................................................................... 2
6.2
Fitness to practice .................................................................................................................. 2
7.
Reporting .................................................................................................................................. 2
7.1
Changes in scope of practice................................................................................................... 2
8.
Competence concerns............................................................................................................... 3
8.1
Process for referral ................................................................................................................. 3
9.
Associated documents .............................................................................................................. 3
1. Overview
Purpose
This document outlines the particular expectations of health practitioners in relation to the Health Practitioners
Competence Assurance Act (HPCAA)
The intent of the HPCCA is public safety to protect the health and safety of members of the public by providing
mechanisms to ensure the competence of health practitioners.
Scope
All health professionals working for Waitematā DHB
2. Key requirements
Only health practitioners who are registered under the Act may use the titles protected by the Act or claim to be
practising a profession that is regulated by the Act.
All health practitioners must demonstrate competence as established by the professional body.
Concerns about competence must be addressed through coaching and if unresolved reported to the professional
body.
3. Scope of Practice
Position descriptions are written to be consistent with the scopes of practice published for the relevant profession.
Health Practitioners must ensure that they act within the defined ‘scope of practice’ i.e. limitations and self-
monitoring and not be permitted to practise outside their scopes of practice.
Health practitioners may only undertake extended practice (beyond a stated scope of practice), if credentialed to do
so in accordance with Waitematā DHB policy. Advanced practice extensions or restrictions in the scope of practice
must be documented in the employment contract.
Certain activities are restricted and only be able to be performed by registered health practitioners.
Supervision & delegation within the scope
Issued by
Director of Nursing
Issued Date
October 2019
Classification
015-001-02-032
Authorised by
Director of Nursing
Review Period 36 months
Page
1 of
3
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Waitematā DHB Management
Professional
Health Practitioner Competence Assurance Expectations
Delegation of care practices/tasks may only occur within the bounds of the scope of practice of the health practitioner
delegated to undertake the work. Senior professionals must provide supervision where a col eague is less experienced
or less qualified to undertake the function/task delegated.
4. Competence assessment
Each professional group wil have documented national y consistent competence assessment processes required to
show compliance with expectations.
Issue of annual practising certificate certifies that a practitioner is competent to practise within their scope of practice.
•
Waitematā DHB wil assist professionals seeking to gather the evidence required for these processes.
•
All staff will receive an annual performance review and will work co-operatively to establish a constructive
performance development management plan.
•
Where professions have defined employment requirements and professional requirements these wil be
supported
•
Base requirements are the responsibility of the health practitioner. Waitematā DHB wil assist with those
requirements that impact on employment e.g. audit, clinical learning opportunities
5. Change in external scope of practice
Where an individual’s scope of practice changes e.g. profession directed restrictions or advanced practice training, the
health professional is required to inform their manager/clinical supervisor/advisor so that consideration can be given
to how the change in external scope of practice may be accommodated. The professional advisor for the service must
be included in these decisions with the manager.
See section below on reporting changes.
6. Record keeping
A job description and contract is changed when the position requires, in accord with the recognized competencies and
scope of practice. Where there are changes this must be recorded in their personnel file and changes made to their
position description and contract.
6.1 Protected Quality Assurance
Professional groups or clinical teams may apply for protected quality assurance status where relevant to review of
practice.
Protected Quality Assurance Activity Policy
6.2 Fitness to practice
Should concern arise about fitness to practice, the manager and professional advisor for the service must fol ow the
accepted process for re-assessment, coaching and performance management.
After al reasonable attempts have been made to remedy such concerns and concerns about fitness to practice
remain, referral to the appropriate professional Board will be made in consultation with the General Manager of the
service and the relevant professional leader.
Al documentation relating to staff referred to their professional Board must be filed formal y in anticipation of
request for investigation records and the name entered onto the register (see next section).
7. Reporting
7.1 Changes in scope of practice
•
It is the responsibility of each health practitioner to advise their manager of any changes to their scope of practice
Issued by
Director of Nursing
Issued Date
October 2019
Classification
015-001-02-032
Authorised by
Director of Nursing
Review Period 36 months
Page
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3
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Waitematā DHB Management
Professional
Health Practitioner Competence Assurance Expectations
•
Staff must inform their manager where they have been reviewed by their professional Board for competence or
practice issues (whether for an issue when working privately or for Waitematā DHB) and the result of the
outcome on their scope e.g. formal supervision.
•
Their Board will inform Waitematā DHB as per the legal expectations
8. Competence concerns
Where concerns are identified
Step
Action
1
The peer or manager must bring their concerns to the notice of the service professional advisor to discuss
the concern and what the options are.
There must be clear documentation of the concerns either as an incident form or audits of practice.
2
The staff member
•
shal be formal y interviewed and advised of the concern
•
shal receive formal assessment using the professional competencies in order to confirm or refute
the concerns.
3
Where appropriate, the staff member shal receive appropriate coaching and/or counsel ing to allow
opportunity for improvement.
4
If concern remains or is confirmed, the health practitioner wil be referred to their professional Board as
per the approved process.
8.1 Process for referral
Where appropriate, competence or fitness to practice should be referred to the appropriate professional board
Step
Action
1
The decision is discussed with key senior staff:
general manager of the service
professional advisor/leader (e.g. Chief Medical Advisor/ Director of Nursing & Midwifery as appropriate)
2
A letter is written to the professional Board and appropriate evidence provided for their consideration.
3
Detail of the referral is held in a confidential central register maintained by the Quality & Risk Facilitator
The ful file of evidence must be gathered, organized and formal y filed to be retrieved as evidence if
required. The Clinical Director or Nurse Advisor holding this information must hold this securely.
9. Associated documents
Type
Title/Description
Legislation
Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003
Waitemata DHB Policy Protected Quality Assurance Activities (PQAA)
Issued by
Director of Nursing
Issued Date
October 2019
Classification
015-001-02-032
Authorised by
Director of Nursing
Review Period 36 months
Page
3 of
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Attachment 2
Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
Contents
1.
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1
Purpose .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2
Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 2
1.3
Associated Documents ........................................................................................................... 2
2.
Policy ........................................................................................................................................ 2
2.1
Definition of fraud .................................................................................................................. 2
2.2
Examples of fraud................................................................................................................... 3
2.3
Waitematā DHB attitude towards fraud .................................................................................. 3
3.
Responsibilities ......................................................................................................................... 3
3.1
The Board, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Leadership Team......................................... 3
3.2
General Managers / Service Managers / Responsibility Centre Managers ................................ 4
3.3
Al Staff .................................................................................................................................. 4
3.4
Role of healthAl iance ............................................................................................................. 4
3.5
Role of Regional Internal Audit ............................................................................................... 4
4.
Internal Controls ....................................................................................................................... 5
5.
Reporting suspected fraud ........................................................................................................ 5
6.
Investigation of suspected fraud ............................................................................................... 6
6.1
Protocol for Fraud Investigation ............................................................................................. 6
6.2
Investigations ......................................................................................................................... 7
6.3
Investigation Team ................................................................................................................. 7
6.4
Investigation requirements ..................................................................................................... 8
6.5
Investigation Team Responsibilities ........................................................................................ 8
6.5.1
Investigation Team – Role of Human Resources ...................................................................... 8
6.6
Notification ............................................................................................................................ 9
1. Overview
This document sets out Waitematā District Health Board’s (Waitematā DHB) policy on fraud. The
document gives Waitematā DHB’s definition of fraud, its attitude towards fraud and its procedures for
identifying and dealing with fraud.
Having the right framework to prevent fraud means having a code of conduct and policies regarding fraud,
including protected disclosures, receiving gifts, and using Waitematā DHB credit cards. It means making it
safe and easy for staff to talk about fraud and raise any concerns or suspicions. It also means having fraud
controls that are reviewed regularly, carrying out due diligence checks of suppliers, doing pre-employment
screening, and providing staff with fraud awareness training.
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this Waitematā DHB document is to convey Waitematā DHB’s attitude towards fraud and
to:
•
Define fraud
•
Emphasise the responsibility of staff and management for reducing opportunities for fraud
•
Raise staff awareness of the possibility of fraud and its consequences
•
Give guidance to employees on the reporting of fraud
•
Document procedures for investigation of potential fraud within the organisation.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
Page
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
1.2 Scope
This policy applies to any irregularity, or suspected irregularity, involving employees as well as suppliers,
contractors, outside agencies doing business with employees of such agencies, and/or any other parties
with a business relationship with Waitematā DHB.
This document applies to:
•
al employees and former employees of Waitematā DHB, including students and volunteers
•
all Waitematā DHB Board and Board Committee members
•
any person seconded to Waitematā DHB
•
any person engaged or contracted under a contract for services to do work for the Waitematā DHB.
For the sake of brevity the terms ‘employee’ and ‘employees’ when used in this document include former
employees and persons seconded and contracted to Waitematā DHB. This policy uses the term ‘fraud’ as
an umbrel a term for the range of possible offences involving dishonesty or deception and encompasses
both suspected and proven fraud. Fraud also includes theft, bribery or corruption.
1.3 Associated Documents
Type
Title/Description
Legislation
Crimes Act 1961
Official information Act 1982
Privacy Act 1993
Health Information Privacy Code 1994
Protected Disclosures Act 2000
Employment Relations Act 2000
Crown Entities Act 2004
Waitematā DHB Policies
Protected Disclosures “Whistleblower” Policy
Discipline & Dismissal Procedure
Conflict of Interest
Auditor-General’s Statement AG-206: Auditor-General’s statement on the auditor’s responsibility to
consider fraud in an audit of a financial report
2. Policy
2.1 Definition of fraud
For the purpose of this policy Waitematā DHB has adopted the Auditor General’s definition of fraud set down
in paragraph 11(a) of ISA (NZ) 240, which states:
“Fraud is an intentional act by one or more individuals among management, those charged with governance,
employees, or third parties, involving the use of deception to obtain an unjust or illegal advantage.”
This definition encompasses but is not limited to:
•
False accounting and/or the making of a false or misleading statement or claim with a view to
personal gain or gain for another person.
•
Knowingly retaining a payment or benefit to which the employee is not entitled.
•
Assisting with or condoning fraud or dishonesty against Waitematā DHB by another employee or an
external party.
•
Theft or unauthorised personal use of Waitematā DHB assets.
•
Placing of a contract, or arranging the placing of a contract, with a particular supplier with a view to
direct or indirect personal gain.
For the avoidance of doubt “fraud” includes bribery or corruption.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
Page
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
Bribery is the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of something of value for the purpose of influencing
the action of an official in the discharge of his or her public or legal duties.
Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain (such as soliciting or receiving gifts or other
gratuities).
Theft means to dishonestly, and without claim or right, take or deal with any property with intent to
deprive any owner permanently of the property or interest in it.
2.2 Examples of fraud
For the purposes of this policy, examples of fraud include, but are not limited to:
•
Payrol frauds, such as falsifying timesheets, leave form or expense claims.
•
Accepting and retaining a salary overpayment or leave balance to which the employee is not entitled
and deliberately failing to report the overpayment or excess leave.
•
Lying about credentials or qualifications.
•
Using official position to secure unwarranted benefits, privileges or profit.
•
Disclosing confidential information to outside parties with a view to personal gain or gain for another
person.
•
Accepting or offering bribes or inducements.
•
Forgery or unauthorised alteration of any document belonging to the DHB with a view to personal
gain or gain for another person.
•
Issuing false or misleading purchase orders.
•
Approving for payment false or misleading invoices.
•
Falsifying invoices.
•
Theft of property, records, plant, equipment ,inventory or any item belonging to the DHB, including
clinical supplies and equipment, electric devices, office supplies and equipment.
•
Unauthorised personal use of Waitematā DHB vehicles or other assets.
•
Granting a contract, or engineering the granting of a contract, to a particular company with a view to
direct or indirect personal gain.
2.3 Waitematā DHB attitude towards fraud
Waitematā DHB regards fraud as totally unacceptable.
Employees who are found to have committed fraud wil be subject to disciplinary procedures. The matter
may also be reported to the police and/or the Serious Fraud Office and/or the Office of the Auditor-General
for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Recovery of money or property fraudulently obtained wil be pursued wherever possible and practicable.
3. Responsibilities
3.1 The Board, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Leadership Team
The Board is ultimately responsible for risk management. In carrying out this responsibility, the Board relies
on Senior Management to design and implement effective controls. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and
Executive Leadership Team, therefore, have the responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud.
They are responsible for ensuring that appropriate effective internal control systems are in place, and that
these systems are subject to regular independent auditing.
The Executive Leadership Team are responsible for creating an environment that encourages employees to
report suspected fraud without fear of disclosure or retribution, and one where employees believe that
dishonest acts wil be detected and investigated with appropriate action taken where fraud has been
confirmed.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
Page
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
3.2 General Managers / Service Managers / Responsibility Centre Managers
General Managers (GM), Service Managers and Responsibility Centre (RC) Managers are responsible for
ensuring effective controls that safeguard against fraudulent activity in their areas of responsibility are
implemented and monitored. It is also their responsibility to be aware of common indicators of fraud,
identify weaknesses in internal control systems and fol ow these up with corrective action.
Managers need to ensure employees are informed of, and conform to, applicable policies and procedures
and receive appropriate training to enable their staff to have an awareness of common indicators of fraud
and to identify weaknesses in internal control. They are also responsible for promoting ethical behaviour
within their teams.
As a result of any suspected or actual fraud, senior management must review the implications with regard
to internal controls and systems, and implement or amend policies, procedure or controls to prevent
similar future frauds. Managers may cal on the support of the Regional Internal Audit Service if they
require assistance to evaluate or improve internal control systems.
Report any suspected fraud as per section 5.
3.3 All Staff
All Waitematā DHB employees must be scrupulously fair and honest in their dealings with patients,
suppliers, contractors, other health service providers and their fel ow employees. They must seek the best
possible value for the taxpayers’ dol ars. They must not seek or accept unauthorized personal benefits.
Staff must take reasonable steps to safeguard Waitematā DHB funds and assets against fraud, waste, loss,
unauthorised use and misappropriation. Staff members have a duty to report suspected fraud and / or
breakdowns in internal control systems to their managers.
A staff member who suspects fraud against Waitematā DHB is expected to report their suspicions as soon
as possible as per section 5. Staff are encouraged not to ignore their concerns. Al Staff members are
entitled to report suspected fraud in accordance with the Protected Disclosures Act 2000 and Waitematā
DHB’s Protected Disclosures (Whistleblower) Policy.
3.4 Role of healthAlliance
healthAlliance provides the fol owing key services to the Waitematā DHB:
•
Finance & Strategy - maintaining the necessary financial disciplines and structures while supporting
the delivery of shared services within budget
•
Information Services- supporting the delivery of high quality healthcare through technology
•
Procurement & Supply Chain services - managing suppliers, contracts and the procurement of
clinical / non-clinical goods and services
•
Staff Service Centre - providing payrol and human resource management systems
Al these services present an opportunity for fraudulent activities. Al healthAl iance staff are responsible
for reducing opportunities for fraud, and healthAl iance management are responsible for informing the
DHB where fraud impacting on the DHB is suspected.
3.5 Role of Regional Internal Audit
The Regional Internal Audit function supports the Waitematā DHB management by reviewing the adequacy
and effectiveness of internal control systems. Internal Audit will liaise with relevant bodies to maintain an
awareness of current fraud related issues.
The Internal Audit Service is required, as part of its audit programme, to perform regular reviews of
transactions, activities or locations that may be susceptible to fraud.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
The steps below are to be fol owed by the Regional Internal Audit Manager for evaluation and following
identification of fraud
1.
Where fraud is detected by or reported to the Regional Manager Internal Audit, Internal Audit wil
immediately report the matter to the CEO, CFO and relevant GM.
2.
Internal Audit is required to notify the Office of the Auditor General and/or the Serious Fraud Office
of any material instances of fraud. This wil be done in consultation with the CFO and/or the CEO.
3.
Depending on the strength of the evidence and level of fraud, Internal Audit may recommend to the
CFO/CEO or GM that the Police be informed of the fraudulent activity. Involvement of any external
parties wil be at the CFO/CEO's or GM’s discretion.
4.
Be part of, or support, the investigation in providing advice on the investigation process and any
analysis/review of documentation and/or evidence.
In cases where al eged fraud concerns significant amounts of money and/or has the potential to reflect
adversely on the DHB's reputation Internal Audit wil :
•
Assess the internal controls in the units involved and
•
Perform any extended audit work required.
•
Report the fraud to the Audit and Finance Committee
4. Internal Controls
Waitematā DHB is committed to the development and maintenance of effective internal control systems to
prevent and detect fraud. Examples of internal controls include, but are not limited to:
•
Segregation of duties: at least two different people, acting independently, must be involved in the
approval of purchasing, finance, payrol and human resources transactions (time sheets, leave
applications, expense claims).
•
No staff member may purchase an asset for their own, non-work, related use.
•
The delegated authority policy states that no employee may exercise delegated authority if they
stand to gain personally from the transaction or if they have, or may be perceived as having, some
other conflict of interest (for example a family member or some other related party gains from the
transaction).
•
Performance of thorough background checks when recruiting employees including checking criminal
records, checking references and verifying qualifications.
•
Due diligence checks to be conducted of any new or potential Suppliers including if relevant that
third parties have their own fraud control processes.
•
Documentation of financial transactions so that they can be traced through an adequate paper trail.
•
Implementation of systems and procedures for verifying timesheets and leave forms.
•
Compliance with the Conflict of Interest policy and appropriate declaration of gifts and sponsorship.
•
Periodic fraud risk assessments are conducted and a fraud risk control plan developed.
•
Regular Fraud risk awareness training is conducted.
5. Reporting suspected fraud
A staff member who suspects fraud against Waitematā DHB should report their suspicions as soon as
possible. Staff members are entitled to report suspected fraud in accordance with the Protected
Disclosures Act 2000 and Waitematā DHB’s Protected Disclosures (Whistleblower) Policy.
Reporting can be as detailed below or via the confidential Health Integrity Line hotline (0800 424 888) or by
email to
[email address]. Al calls are treated with full confidentiality and callers are
protected by the Protected Disclosures Act 2000.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
Page
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
If the staff member
They should report it to:
The means by which the al egation wil be
suspects fraud by:
investigated and documented (including
involvement of the Police and/or Serious
Fraud Office and/or the Auditor-General)
wil be decided by:
A contractor, a supplier or
Their General Manager.
an employee of a supplier
(The GM must report the allegation
The CFO and/or the CEO after consultation
promptly to the Chief Financial Officer with the Regional Internal Audit Manager.
(CFO))
Another staff member
Their General Manager.
(other than their General
Manager or the Chief
(The GM must report the allegation
The CFO and/or the CEO after consultation
Executive or the Chief
promptly to the CFO)
with the Regional Internal Audit Manager.
Financial Officer)
HR advice should also be sought.
A General Manager or other The Chief Executive.
Senior Manager/Executive
(The Chief Executive must report the
The CEO after consultation with the CFO
al egation promptly to the CFO, the
and the Regional Internal Audit Manager.
Regional Internal Audit Manager and
HR advice should also be sought.
the Chair of the Board)
If the staff member
They should report it to:
The means by which the al egation wil be
suspects fraud by:
investigated and documented (including
involvement of the Police and/or Serious
Fraud Office and/or the Auditor-General)
wil be decided by:
The Chief Executive and/or
The Chair of the Board.
the Chief Financial Officer
(The Chair must report the allegation
The Chair after consultation with the
promptly to the Regional Internal
Regional Internal Audit Manager and the
Audit Manager and the External
External Auditor. HR advice should also be
Auditor. If there are prima facie
sought.
indications that the al egation may
have substance the Chair must also
report it to the Minister of Health)
The Chair of the Board
The Chief Executive
and/or another board
member
(The Chief Executive must report the
The Minister of Health and/or the Office of
allegation promptly to the Manager of the Auditor-General
the Regional Internal Audit Service
and the External Auditor. If there are
prima facie indications that the
al egation may have substance the
Chief Executive must also report it to
the Minister of Health )
6. Investigation of suspected fraud
6.1 Protocol for Fraud Investigation
In the event that suspicion of fraud arises the fol owing protocol shal be observed.
1.
Identifying potential fraud, either by Internal Audit or other means e.g.’ whistleblowing’
2.
Investigation of the al eged fraud in consultation with the Human Resources Manager, RC Manager
and GM. External consultants may be utilised to investigate the allegations.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
3.
Internal Audit shal report on any implications of the fraud investigation relating to internal controls
and systems.
4.
Determination on next steps where fraud is established, which may include referral for prosecution
and/or disciplinary action.
An accurate and thorough report of the fraud will be prepared. Any documentation or material that could
be considered potential evidence should be identified and secured in an unaltered form and kept in a
secure location.
No evidence or document should be given to the Police or any other regulatory authority without either the
express approval from the CFO / CEO or under the directions of a Court Order.
6.2 Investigations
All allegations of fraud will be consistently and thoroughly investigated with the findings documented. The
means by which the al egation wil be investigated and documented (including involvement of the Police
and/or Serious Fraud Office and/or the Auditor-General) is detailed in section 5. The level of investigation
wil be proportionate to the level of the fraud. The Director Human Resources and/or Waitematā DHB
Legal Advisor should be consulted regarding any investigation in to suspected fraud.
Great care will be taken in the investigation of suspected improprieties or irregularities so as to avoid
mistaken accusations. Every individual suspected of committing fraud (whether they are an employee or
someone external to the Waitematā DHB) will be dealt with consistently and fairly.
External agencies may be used for investigation if deemed appropriate. Waitematā DHB may also report
suspected fraud to the police and/or the Serious Fraud Office and/or the Office of the Auditor-General for
further investigation and possible prosecution.
Under the Disciplinary and Dismissal policy, Fraud is classified as serious misconduct. To ensure any
disciplinary action is applied consistently to al employees, any investigation into suspected fraud wil be
conducted in line with the Disciplinary and Dismissal Policy.
6.3 Investigation Team
The CFO / CEO or relevant GM (depending upon the level/significance of the fraud) will allocate the task of
investigating allegations of fraud to a person or team.
In cases where alleged fraud concerns significant amounts of money and/or has the potential to reflect
adversely on the DHB's reputation, the CFO / CEO shal determine as to whether an external consulting
investigators should be recruited.
In any investigation process the Director Human Resources and/or Waitematā DHB Legal Advisor must be
involved in the planning and implementation of the investigation to ensure that appropriate employment
obligations and al legal requirements are considered.
Internal Audit wil defer leadership of the investigation to the relevant manager or Human Resources
Manager when it is deemed appropriate. In such cases Internal Audit wil maintain an audit oversight.
Internal Audit may be required to assist investigators in obtaining information, and should continue to
maintain oversight of the investigation.
Others that may need to be involved in a fraud investigation include:
•
The Human Resources Manager
•
The relevant General Manager
•
Police
•
Office of the Auditor General
•
Legal support and
•
Serious Fraud Office
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
Page
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Management
Finance
Fraud Monitoring and Management
6.4 Investigation requirements
In order to ensure a robust and comprehensive investigation of any suspected or identified fraud, the
following is required:
•
Identification of all witnesses
•
Review of al systems and documentation as appropriate
•
Collation of full facts about the allegations
•
Records need to be secured to avoid alteration
•
Equipment/assets may need to be retrieved
As a result of the investigation findings:
•
Disciplinary action may be necessary
•
Criminal prosecution may be necessary
•
Restitution may need to be sought for any loss
•
Corrective entries may need to be made
•
Changes to procedures may be required
Any investigation findings and recommendations wil be included in the fraud investigation report.
6.5 Investigation Team Responsibilities
Internal Audit, the relevant investigating manager and the Human Resources Manager will maintain close
liaison during the investigation. Information provided or discovered wil be held confidential y and
securely.
The Investigation Team wil make a recommendation to the CFO / CEO and/or the relevant GM as to
whether criminal prosecution, civil action and/or disciplinary action should be instigated. The decision to
take disciplinary action is the responsibility of the CFO / CEO, GM or Manager of the employee(s) under
investigation.
After completion of the investigation, and where appropriate, the investigation team will provide a written
report to:
•
The Board through the Audit and Finance Committee
•
The Chief Executive
•
The relevant Senior Manager
•
Internal Audit
Internal Audit may also submit a Report to the CEO or GM as a confidential report in which the Auditor
independently and freely reports their opinion. Any recommendations made in the report are provided
within the consultancy role of Internal Audit.
6.5.1 Investigation Team – Role of Human Resources
The Human Resources Manager wil have the responsibility to ensure correct employment procedure is
adhered to and will participate in the investigation to the extent required.
Assessment and advice from the Human Resources Manager should involve positioning the Investigation
recommendations within the context of employment law and practice, and to this end, legal advice may
need to be sought.
During an investigation process the Human Resources Manager wil ensure that there is proper support for
all employees involved within the applicable Human Resource policies and guidance.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
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Management
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Fraud Monitoring and Management
6.6 Notification
Notifications of fraud investigations and their outcomes are to be made as fol ows:
The Audit & Finance Committee
To be advised of the outcome of al fraud investigations
The external auditor
To be advised of the outcome of al material fraud investigations
The insurer
To be advised upon discovering a loss or potential loss regardless of
whether or not there is a possibility that Waitematā DHB may make a
claim on its insurance policy.
Issued by
Chief Financial Officer
Issued Date
September 2019
Classification
01001-06-012
Authorised by
Audit and Finance Committee
Review Period 36 months
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Attachment 3
WDHB Management Manual
Information Services
Internet & Email Use
Contents
1.
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1
Purpose .................................................................................................................................. 1
2.
Policy Components ................................................................................................................... 2
2.1
Policy Scope ........................................................................................................................... 2
2.2
Exceptions .............................................................................................................................. 2
2.3
Monitoring & Disclosure ......................................................................................................... 2
2.4
Prohibited Activities ............................................................................................................... 3
2.5
Security & Confidentiality ....................................................................................................... 4
2.6
Email Communications with Patients ...................................................................................... 4
2.7
Breach of Policy ...................................................................................................................... 5
3.
Internet Use .............................................................................................................................. 5
3.1
Offensive Material .................................................................................................................. 5
3.2
Courtesy ................................................................................................................................. 5
3.3
Social Media ........................................................................................................................... 5
3.4
Passwords and Access ............................................................................................................ 5
3.5
Downloads ............................................................................................................................. 6
4.
Email ......................................................................................................................................... 6
4.1
Email Etiquette ....................................................................................................................... 6
4.2
Public Medium ....................................................................................................................... 6
4.3
Forwarding Messages ............................................................................................................. 6
4.4
Business Use .......................................................................................................................... 7
4.5
Group Exchange Messages ..................................................................................................... 7
4.6
Unsolicited Bulk Email (spam) ................................................................................................. 7
4.7
Software virus control ............................................................................................................ 7
4.8
Limitations ............................................................................................................................. 7
4.9
Public Records Act 2005 Requirements ................................................................................... 8
5.
Reference Information .............................................................................................................. 8
5.1
Related & Associated Documents ........................................................................................... 8
5.2
Definitions.............................................................................................................................. 8
1. Overview
This document outlines the Waitemata District Health Board (“WDHB”) policy regarding the usage of the
internet and the usage of electronic mail (email).
1.1 Purpose
Internet and email technology is provided by hA on behalf of WDHB as an innovative tool that is integral to
WDHB business.
The communication, research and education functions of the internet are recognised and can contribute to
the “healthy difference” we can provide for our communities. Email is an important communication tool.
This Internet and Email Use policy is required to:
•
Protect the reputation of WDHB
•
Protect the integrity and security of WDHB’s internal IT systems and applications (including patient
and clinical information)
•
Ensure that internet and email services are used primarily for business purposes,
•
Ensure that emails are stored within the clinical or corporate record in accordance with the Public
Records Act 2005 or Health Information Privacy Code 1994,
•
Ensure that internet and email services are utilised in a cost effective manner
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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Information Services
Internet & Email Use
Because of the evolving nature of both the internet and email, WDHB may modify this policy at any time in
order to mitigate risk to the organisations.
2. Policy Components
2.1 Policy Scope
The policy (and associated rules and documents) encompasses and applies to the fol owing components:
•
The use of email, both internal and external to WDHB, and related technologies such as internet
newsgroups, web or internet based email, instant messaging or other email services
•
The use of the internet for the retrieval of information utilising the web browsing software as
provided (i.e. Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox)
•
The use of email and / or internet services accessed via a mobile device, including but not limited to,
Blackberry, Palm Pilot, tablet or mobile phone.
This policy applies to:
•
Al WDHB employees (including permanent and temporary), contract staff, students, volunteers, and
other users who utilise email or internet as provided by WDHB;
•
Al resources and devices supplied by WDHB including laptops, mobile phones, internet accounts
and modems when used from external locations, such as from home.
2.2 Exceptions
WDHB recognises that periodically there will be a legitimate business requirement that does not comply
with existing WDHB policy.
•
Where this occurs, a request must be submitted to hA IS via the normal mechanisms (IS Service
Desk), however this will require WDHB General Manager or Senior Management approval and in
some cases CIO or CEO approval.
•
These requests wil be assessed and responded to on an exception basis.
It is accepted that clinical or health related images may be held legitimately by health professionals;
however some of these may be identified in audits or by other means as meeting criteria for investigation.
Where this material is discovered (or located in the course of an investigation), the user’s line manager will
assist to determine the legitimacy of the material.
2.3 Monitoring & Disclosure
•
WDHB IS systems are provided as a business tool, and while some non-business use is acceptable,
WDHB is entitled to access and monitor all information about use, and any material, or information
about material, generated or accessed by WDHB employees on WDHB’s systems.
•
WDHB can be required to disclose information to law enforcement, regulatory agencies, under
Official Information Act 1982 requests, and discovery actions in litigation.
•
WDHB’s Senior Management, Legal Officer or Human Resource Manager can request any information
about an individual employee. Internal requests for security, internet or email usage investigations
should be submitted to IS Service Desk for a security investigation (without providing the user’s
details). The resolving team will ask for user details, which are kept outside the Cherwell database
for confidentiality purposes.
•
No employee should have any expectation of privacy as to his or her internet or email usage. WDHB
and hA IS wil review activity and analyse usage patterns, and they may choose to publicise this
information to the appropriate parties to assure that resources are being used appropriately at all
times. WDHB reserves the right to inspect any and all emails or files stored within its network in order
to assure compliance with policy. WDHB reserves the right to monitor internet and email use at any
time.
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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Information Services
Internet & Email Use
•
Al employees should be aware that systems are in place that record each email message, all internet
activity and each file transfer into and out of our internal networks.
2.4 Prohibited Activities
Internet and email is provided for purposes relating to WDHB business including associated research or
business related educational activities. Non-business use of the internet and email is subject to al of the
conditions detailed within this policy and should be kept to a minimum.
Reasonable non-business use of the internet is permitted. Web browsing using company assets before and
after work should be limited to internet banking, non-business emails, news sites and directories (e.g.
White Pages).
In addition to this Internet and Email Use Policy, the following activities are prohibited at ALL times and
apply to ALL users:
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to knowingly disable or overload any computer system
or network, or to circumvent any system intended to protect the privacy or security of a patient or
another user or system.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to knowingly download or distribute pirated software
or information.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to participate in any form of internet socialising such
as dating or chatting. This includes (but is not limited to) such sites and apps as WhatsApp, FB
Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, Tinder, Bumble.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to knowingly propagate any malicious software e.g.
Virus, worm, Trojan horse, hacker tools or trap-door program code, or to obtain information or
software intended or designed, disable, overload any computer system or network, or to circumvent
any system intended to protect the privacy or security of a patient, another user, or system.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to download entertainment software or games, or to
play or participate in games against opponents over the Internet or via email.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to participate in any form of gambling.
• Users may not undertake any activity that wil contravene the laws of New Zealand.
• Users may not undertake any activity that infringes copyright, including (but not limited to) copying
electronic files without permission or breaching the terms of any licence.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities for non-WDHB business, without prior written
authorisation from the CEO or other delegated authority.
• Al Waitemata DHB business (including patient information) must only be conducted using a
Waitemata DHB email account (refer to 2.5) . Staff who work across a number of sites (such as at
another DHB or a private practice) must ensure al WDHB related communication is from their WDHB
email account.
• Users may not use the internet or email facilities to transmit receive, distribute, view or download
offensive, obscene, insulting, harassing, sexist, pornographic or otherwise inappropriate or offensive
messages or pictures.
These restrictions apply equal y to the use of external instant messaging services such as WhatsApp and
Facebook Messenger, external social media apps such as Instagram and Twitter, external email services
such as Gmail, Hotmail or Yahoo or those provided by the various internet providers such as xtra, when
accessed from WDHB’s network or using WDHB resources such as laptops.
The display of any kind of offensive image or document on any WDHB system constitutes a violation of
organisational policy.
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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WDHB Management Manual
Information Services
Internet & Email Use
In addition, sexually explicit material may not be viewed, archived, stored, distributed, edited or recorded
using WDHB networks or computing resources, including H: drives.
Undertaking a prohibited activity may be regarded as serious misconduct under WDHB’s Discipline and
Dismissal policies.
2.5 Security & Confidentiality
hA (on behalf of WDHB) has installed security facilities to assure the safety and security of the networks.
Any attempt to disable, defeat or circumvent these security facilities, including passwords and software
licenses, may constitute serious misconduct.
2.5.1 Email and instant messaging
•
Security and confidentiality of information cannot be guaranteed when using email or instant
messaging services.
•
Emails sent between hA, Auckland DHB, CMDHB and WDHB (including al hospitals & remote clinics),
travel over a secure, internal link rather than the public internet.
•
Private, cloud-based and non-WDHB email addresses are considered non-secure.
•
Emails sent to external locations will travel over the public internet potential y al owing them to be
intercepted and read by individuals other than the intended recipients.
•
Instant messages sent through Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp are stored by Facebook and is not
in the DHB’s control.
•
Secure transmission has been enforced with some external agencies. Refer to the current list on
Staffnet – Privacy, Resources
List of organisations with secure email link to WDHB
For this reason, commercially or clinically sensitive information should only be sent as fol ows:
•
Al Waitemata DHB business (including patient information) must only be conducted from a
Waitemata DHB email account (not private email or social media accounts).
•
Business emails sent outside the Waitemata DHB network (see above), must be sent either
a)
via a secure external link (only those organisations listed in
List of organisations with secure
email link to WDHB ), or
b)
the commercial/clinical information must be password protected. Refer to password
protecting instructions on Staffnet - Privacy, Resources
Instructions - Password Protecting
Documents . The IS Service Desk can provide further assistance and information on password
protecting documents
•
For emails
with patients, see 2.6 below.
2.5.2
Internet
No work-related, commercially or clinically sensitive material or information may be posted on or sent to
any web page, internet site or ‘blog’ page, or through Facebook Messenger or Whatsapp...
2.6 Email Communications with Patients
In the event that a patient indicates that they wish to communicate with a WDHB health care professional
by email, the staff member involved must validate the patient’s email address and ensure that this is
documented in the patient notes.
How to obtain patient consent and to validate the patient’s email address is described in the process on the
Staffnet – Privacy Respect & Protect –
Resources webpage – “Emailing with patients – how to get patient
consent and validate an email address”.
a)
The content of the email communication is part of the clinical record and must therefore be included
in the electronic or hard copy notes. Emails to be included in the patient record can either be
i.
copy and pasted into a clinical document where available (eg Paediatrics Progress Note), or
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
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Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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Information Services
Internet & Email Use
ii.
forwarded to
[email address] with the patient’s NHI
and the Clinical Records Department wil file the email.
b)
Where a number of emails are exchanged regarding one matter, and it would be more appropriate
for a summary of the email to be recorded and kept, then the health care professional involved must
write or dictate a summary. Such summaries should contain the dates the emails span, the number
of emails exchanged, who the emails were between, the subject matter, the conclusions reached and
advice offered, plus any other relevant information.
c)
Summaries must be written frequently so that they are as contemporaneous as possible to the time
of the communication. At a minimum, summaries must be written on a weekly basis. Al summaries
must be written in accordance with the Clinical Documentation policy.
2.7 Breach of Policy
A breach or suspected breach of this policy or any of its components must be reported to the Service HR
Manager, CIO or Legal Officer, who will liaise with the hA IS Security Team.
Disciplinary action may be taken for any breach of this policy including minor breaches of a persistent or
repeated nature (which wil in appropriate circumstances be treated as serious misconduct) as per the
relevant Discipline & Dismissal Policies.
3. Internet Use
In addition to the prohibited activities as outlined above, the fol owing applies to al Internet usage:
3.1 Offensive Material
Since a wide variety of materials may be deemed offensive by colleagues, patients, clients or suppliers, it is
a violation of WDHB policy to store, view, print or redistribute any document, message or graphic file that is
not directly related to an employee’s role or a specific WDHB business activity. This wil be regarded as
serious misconduct under WDHB’s Discipline and Dismissal policy
Employees must not download or view offensive, obscene, insulting, harassing, sexist, pornographic or
otherwise inappropriate messages, files or pictures.
The display of any kind of sexual y explicit image or document on any Employer system constitutes a
violation of organisational policy. In addition, sexually explicit material may not be viewed, archived, stored,
distributed, edited or recorded using WDHB networks or computing resources, including H: drives.
hA (in discussion with Auckland Region DHBs) reserves the right to block access to potential y inappropriate
web sites.
3.2 Courtesy
Due to limited bandwidth, internet users should schedule communication (bandwidth) intensive operations
such as large file transfers, video downloads, and the like for off-peak times, general y outside normal
business hours (provided these are legitimate work-related activities).
If this is unable to be done outside of business hours, then the IS Service Desk should be advised to ensure
system performance can be monitored.
3.3 Social Media
Using social media via internet is also included in this policy. See the Waitemata DHB Social Media Policy for
more detail.
3.4 Passwords and Access
Users are responsible for ensuring the security of their access and passwords.
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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Internet & Email Use
•
Al passwords must be kept confidential.
•
Users must not share their login or password. If a user provides their login or password to another
individual or an unauthorised user, they wil be held responsible for any actions on their user
account, and may face disciplinary action.
•
Users should log out of the computer when they have finished using it.
•
Users should use a screen saver password to protect access when they are absent from their desk.
•
Users should shut down their computers at the end of each working day.
3.5 Downloads
Users may not download any software from any source without hA IS approval.
If software is required for a specific business requirement, this must be requested via the IS Software
Request Process, and must be licensed and tested appropriately to ensure legal compliance and to mitigate
any risks to the existing infrastructure, systems and data (the users employing service (RC) must provide
funding for any licence requirements).
Downloaded software must be used only under the terms of its licence.
Failure to register the software may result in the software and associated data being removed.
Users must not download or attempt to download il egal software licenses or keys (cracks).
•
Users may not download mp3s, videos or images without WDHB approval.
•
Users may not upload any software licensed to WDHB or licenses or data owned or licensed by any of
these organisations without explicit authorisation from the manager responsible for the software or
data and hA IS.
•
Any files or software that has been downloaded may be used only in ways that are consistent with
their licenses or copyrights.
4. Email
In addition to the prohibited activities as outlined above, the fol owing applies to all email usage:
4.1 Email Etiquette
Email is provided as a business communication tool and common courtesy and professionalism should
prevail.
Professional and polite language should be used for al business communications, with consideration being
given to language and tone.
•
It is inappropriate to use email to send heated messages likely to “inflame” the receiver, even if you
believe you have been provoked.
•
Email etiquette states that messages sent in very large font or in al capital letters is considered to be
“shouting” and therefore impolite.
•
Do not transmit anything in an email message that could not be sent in writing a letter or
memorandum. It is important to remember that the contents of emails are available for
redistribution (once sent) and therefore consideration should be taken to the content of the email.
4.2 Public Medium
Communications on the network are often public in nature.
•
Please note that because communications originate from the organisation, they can be perceived as
being representative of WDHB.
4.3 Forwarding Messages
When forwarding an email message, consider asking the person who sent it for their permission. Act in a
professional manner and never alter the original wording.
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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Internet & Email Use
Automated forwarding of emails to unsecured external email systems is prohibited. This process is of high
risk particularly when the emails contain patient or staff information.
4.4 Business Use
Email is primarily for business use.
•
Use of the system to solicit or conduct outside business ventures, or to divulge confidential
information is prohibited.
•
Unreasonable use of emails for non-business buying or sel ing of goods is not permitted. A Staff
Notice Board is provided for this sort of activity.
4.5 Group Exchange Messages
Group exchange messages are a key communication tool within the organisation.
•
RC Managers have a responsibility to ensure relevant communications are disseminated to staff in
their areas, especial y where staff have limited access to these messages.
Group exchange messages to al users are strictly control ed.
•
Authority to send group exchange messages must be delegated by the CEO in the normal fashion.
•
Group exchange messages to be sent to al users must be forwarded to a staff member with
delegated authority for approval.
Group Exchange Messages should not contain attachments unless absolutely necessary.
4.6 Unsolicited Bulk Email (spam)
hA on behalf of the Employers has filters in place to minimise the receipt of unsolicited bulk email, junk
mail or spam. Although these filters are very effective in preventing spam, they cannot be perfect. Users
must accept that spam is a natural part of using email.
Users must refrain from replying to spam, clicking on or fol owing links contained in spam or from
attempting to unsubscribe from bulk email as it seldom does little more than compound the problem.
Do not open or forward chain letters or unsolicited junk emails without first consulting the IS Service Desk.
•
It is advisable to delete these items immediately as they may contain viruses or be a virus hoax.
WDHB also reserves the right to automatical y block email attachments.
•
Should these email be legitimate or expected, the recipient should in the first instance contact the
sender and arrange alternative delivery. Spam email is not kept and cannot be released.
•
User can contact the IS Service Desk for more details.
Users must not participate in the sending, forwarding or replying to chain emails.
4.7 Software virus control
Virus scanning software is provided as standard on every PC or Laptop within WDHB.
•
Ensure that this software is active at all times.
•
Be aware that viruses can remain undetected as attachments within emails until those attachments
are opened.
•
Be aware that viruses can be sent from a person known to the user without their knowledge.
4.8 Limitations
To maintain and limit the ever-increasing burden of electronic information storage, the fol owing
limitations are applied to email services:
•
Sent or received emails which are greater than 10 MB (megabytes) wil be automatically blocked;
•
Inbox size should not exceed 45 MB;
By default, automatic archiving of old emails is activated, however, this may be modified if an employee
requires the need to retain direct access to old emails.
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
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Information Services
Internet & Email Use
4.9 Public Records Act 2005 Requirements
Any email that is a business dealing on behalf of WDHB is a corporate record (information created, received
and maintained by WDHB to fulfil legal obligations or to evidence business transactions) and as such al
corporate records must be stored within the corporate repository in accordance with the Corporate
Records Management policy.
5. Reference Information
5.1 Related & Associated Documents
Other documents relevant to this policy/process/procedure are listed below:
Type
Title
NZ Legislation
Various
WDHB Policy &
•
Discipline & Dismissal Policy
Procedure
•
Information Security Policy
•
Information Security Principles Policy
•
Communications Policy
•
Social Media Policy
•
Corporate Information Policy
•
Clinical Documentation Policy
hA
•
IT Acceptable Use Policy
•
Password Policy
5.2 Definitions
Terms and abbreviations used in this document are described below:
Term / Abbreviation Description
WDHB
Waitemata District Health Board – including all remote sites and services.
hA
healthAl iance – including all sites and services.
Internet
The term “internet” refers to the global network of publicly accessible computers linked using
the Internet Protocol standard.
World Wide Web
The terms “World Wide Web” and “Web” refer to Internet servers accessed via the Hyper Text
(WWW or Web)
Transfer Protocol (HTTP)
Email
An electronic message transmitted via the internet
IS
healthAl iance Information Services (also know as hA IS)
Spam
Unsolicited bulk email
Offensive material
Any material (including but not limited to images, graphics, videos, sound files, texts,
documents or emails) that are or could be deemed offensive or inappropriate.
Including but not limited to:
•
Pornographic / sexual explicit material
•
Sexist material
•
Insulting material
•
Racist or religiously intolerant material
•
Harassing, bul ying or threatening material of any kind.
Employee
Refers to any user of WDHB computer systems and applications including employees,
contractors, students.
Issued by
Privacy and Security Governance Group
Issued Date
July 2018
Classification
01001-09-003
Authorised by
CIO
Review Period 36 months
Page
8 of
8
This information is correct at date of issue. Always check on Waitemata DHB Control ed Documents site that this is the most recent version.
Document Outline
- ATTACHMENT 1 - Health Practitioner Competence Assurance Expectations Oct19.pdf
- ATTACHMENT 2 - Fraud - Monitoring and Management Sep19.pdf
- ATTACHMENT 3 - Internet and Email Use Jul18.pdf