Distributed to staff this week, the policy advises that DHB-related inquiries must go through the communications team.
The Otago Daily Times was verbally advised of a change earlier this year, when the new chief executive, Carole Heatly, ended access the newspaper used to have to her office.
Media have previously had direct access to the executive management team, including the chief executive, the chief medical officer and the chief financial officer.
Now, inquiries must go to the communications office, after which Ms Heatly will personally approve every prepared statement or appointed spokesman.
"This helps ensure that responses are timely, accurate and reflect the position of the DHB."
However, in a loosening of the previous system, clinicians are allowed to speak to the media about their area of expertise.
This does not have to go through the communications office.
There is also provision for staff to speak out in a whistle-blowing capacity if they feel patient safety is at risk.
"It is recognised that clinical staff have a duty to their patients and the community and that, in rare situations, clinical staff may feel the need to speak to the media about areas of concern.
"It is expected that, in these situations, staff will have first raised concerns with managers and through professional lines."
Media personnel on DHB property will need to be accompanied by communications staff, the policy states.
The DHB has an executive communications manager, based in Dunedin and a communications officer in Southland, and is recruiting another communications officer for Dunedin.
