The hyperlinked websites published on the licensee’s website have been changed and contained laudatory statements that relate to the healthcare service provided by the licensee. Will the licensee be liable in such cases?
Yes, a hyperlink which contains non-factual information about the healthcare service provided by the licensee could potentially be a contravention under Regulation 17(1)(a) which pertains to the accuracy of the information contained in any hyperlinked website published on the healthcare institution’s website. Where the licensee becomes aware of a non-compliant hyperlinked website, the licensee must immediately remove the contravening hyperlink from the healthcare institution’s website. If, despite being aware of this non-compliant hyperlink, the licensee does not take reasonable steps to rectify/withdraw the non-compliant hyperlink, the licensee commits an offence under this Regulation