Introduction

Our practice is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of patient health information.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store and disclose your personal and health information in accordance with Australian privacy legislation and professional healthcare standards.

Legislation and Standards

Our practice complies with:

• Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)

• Australian Privacy Principles (APPs)

• Relevant Health Records legislation

• RACGP Standards for General Practices

Information We Collect

Personal Information may include:

• Name

• Date of birth

• Address

• Contact details

• Medicare number

• Health fund details

• Emergency contact details

Health Information may include:

• Medical history

• Medications

• Allergies

• Immunisation records

• Test results

• Referrals and specialist reports

• Treatment plans

How Information Is Collected

Information may be collected when you register as a patient, during consultations, through medical questionnaires, or from healthcare providers involved in your care such as specialists, pathology or radiology services.

Purpose of Collecting Information

We collect your information primarily to provide healthcare services. Information may also be used for:

• Diagnosis and treatment

• Appointment reminders

• Billing and Medicare claims

• Communication with healthcare providers

• Practice administration

• Quality improvement activities

• Legal compliance

Storage and Security

Patient information may be stored in secure electronic medical record systems or in paper records where necessary. The practice takes reasonable steps to protect information from unauthorised access, misuse, loss or disclosure.

Disclosure of Information

Health information may be shared with healthcare providers involved in your care such as specialists, hospitals, pathology providers, radiology services and allied health professionals. Information may also be disclosed where required by law.

Access and Correction

Patients have the right to request access to their health information. Requests should be made in writing to the practice. Administrative fees may apply for copies of records.

If you believe information is incorrect or incomplete, you may request that the practice correct your record.

Privacy Complaints

If you have concerns about how your personal information has been handled, please contact the practice.

Document Title: Privacy Policy

Reviewed By: Business Manager

Effective date: March 2026

Review: Annually