Current as at 19/05/2019
1. Overview and purpose
Respirologist respects your rights to privacy and takes our privacy obligations seriously. We comply with the Australian Privacy Principles, found under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
Privacy Officer: Phone: (07) 3123 5350 Email: reception@respirologist.com.au Post: Suite 22, Level 6, Mater Medical Centre, 293 Vulture Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101
2. Collection of personal information
We collect information necessary to provide healthcare and manage our business, including: name, contact details, medical history, family history, treatments, lifestyle factors, Medicare number, and health fund details.
You can deal with us anonymously unless it is impracticable to do so.
We collect information from you directly (consent forms, records, consultations) or from other health providers, relatives/friends, and health insurers where consented or necessary.
CCTV operates for safety/security and sleep study recording. CCTV is not activated during consultations.
3. How we use your personal information
We use your personal information only for healthcare services, facilitating care by other providers, or business management.
Exceptions include: related secondary purpose, law enforcement, serious threat to life/health, or where legally required.
Examples of use include:
- Provide healthcare
- Manage the practice (audits, accreditation, billing, training)
- Communicate with health insurers, Medicare, government departments
- Research (with written permission)
4. Disclosing your personal information
We may disclose your information to employees, contractors, service providers, and healthcare professionals involved in your treatment. In emergencies, records may be provided without waiting for consent.
We may also disclose to: parents/children/relatives/guardians, government departments (Defence, DVA), health insurers, Medicare, and anyone you authorise.
5. Overseas recipients
We do not transfer personal information overseas. If transfer becomes necessary, we will ask for your consent first.
6. Data storage, quality and security
All personal information is stored electronically, protected from unauthorised access. Security measures include: physical security, staff training, IT security (virus controls, firewalls, encryption), clean desk policy, and Australian-hosted data centre.
7. Destroying your personal information
Subject to applicable laws. Medical records are retained on our system for future use.
8. Accessing and amending your personal information
You can request access to or amendment of your personal information. There is no charge for making a request; we may charge for providing copies. We may refuse access if it would interfere with others’ privacy.
9. Complaints
Contact the Privacy Officer. We respond within 10 business days. If unsatisfied, you may refer your complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.
10. Review and changes to this Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy may be altered following legislative change or review.