Clayton Family Medical Centre is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and share your personal information.

1. What Information We Collect

• Your name, date of birth, address, contact details
• Medicare, DVA, pension or concession details
• Medical history, family history, medications, allergies, test results, and treatment plans
• Billing, payment, and health insurance information

2. How We Collect Information

• Directly from you (in person, phone, online forms, email)
• From other healthcare providers, specialists, hospitals, pathology/radiology services (with your consent)
• From Medicare, My Health Record, or your private health insurer

3. Why We Collect Information

• Provide you with medical treatment and healthcare services
• Communicate with you regarding your care
• Send recalls, reminders, and follow-up notices (unless you opt out)
• Bill and liaise with Medicare, DVA, or health funds
• Comply with legal and regulatory obligations

4. Storage & Security

• Your records are stored securely in electronic and/or paper format.
• We take reasonable steps to protect your information from misuse, loss, or unauthorised access.
• Only authorised staff involved in your care can access your records.

5. Disclosure of Information

• Other healthcare providers involved in your care (e.g. specialists, hospitals, allied health)
• Pathology and radiology providers
• Medicare, DVA, and health insurers (for billing purposes)
• Third parties where required by law (e.g. court orders, public health reporting)

We will not disclose your personal information to any third party without your consent unless legally required.

6. Access & Correction

• You have the right to access your health information (a fee may apply for administration).
• Request corrections if you believe information is inaccurate, incomplete, or out of date.
• Please speak to reception or write to the Practice Manager for access requests.

7. Use of Electronic Communication

• We may use SMS, email, or phone for appointment reminders and recalls.
• Clinical advice will not be provided via email for safety reasons.
• You may opt out of electronic communications at any time.

8. Privacy Concerns & Complaints

If you have a concern about your privacy, please contact our Practice Manager, Kristina Sherring on ph: 03 9828 7560.

If you are not satisfied, you may contact:

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)
Phone: 1300 363 992
Website: www.oaic.gov.au

9. Policy Updates

This policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in legislation or clinic processes. The latest version will always be available at reception or on our website.