Open communication is a timely and transparent approach to communicating with consumers and whānau when harm or the potential for harm has occurred. It is a key step to a relational response and approach to understanding the experiences of the people harmed. Open communication should maintain or restore the tapu or dignity of all the people involved.
Open disclosure guidance
The Health and Disability Commissioner’s guidance outlines the principles underpinning open disclosure which have remained constant for over 25 years: health care providers should openly and honestly discuss harm (adverse) events that occur during health care and harm patients.
Published: 20 Jun 2023
Modified: 26 Jan 2026
