What to change
The containing web page cannot control access to a separate download. If the file is meant to remain public but absent from search, ask the hosting owner about a file-specific indexing response. If the file contains material that must not be public, resolve access and exposure directly; a search preference is not protection. The acceptance evidence should concern the exact file address.
A worked example
Illustrative example
Illustrative test: Use a harmless sample PDF to check the header without exposing a real private document. Imagine an old directions leaflet contains information the practice has withdrawn. Removing its button from the location page leaves a saved email link usable. Reception supplies that old link to the website supplier, who applies the agreed file-level decision. The practice then checks the direct address from a signed-out browser. The page edit and document decision are recorded together so neither is mistaken for proof of the other.
What this means for your practice
A leaflet has its own address, just as a webpage does. Removing the button that links to it does not necessarily remove the file or stop an old bookmark opening it. First decide what you want: a publicly available download, a public file that should not appear in search, or a document that should no longer be publicly accessible. These are different instructions for your supplier. Use the file's exact address when discussing the change, and include any old versions that remain published. Ask for a demonstration while signed out. If access must be restricted, an instruction to search engines is not enough; the supplier needs to address access to the document itself.
How to check the result
The direct file response matches the approved availability and indexing decision.
A mistake to avoid
Hiding a link does not make the linked file private.
Turn reading into a next step
Your action checklist
Work through these checks with your team or supplier. Tick the ones you have resolved and leave unknowns open.
Record what you know, what is still missing and the answer you need from your team or supplier.
Use project decisions only, without personal, patient or confidential details. Entries stay in this page and are not submitted to Kay & Co. Copy or download before leaving; this page does not save your notes.
Further reading
These sources provide background for the topic. The practice examples and checklist are illustrative planning suggestions from Kay & Co.
Related guides
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