Privacy Policy

1. Our Commitment to Privacy

We are committed to safeguarding your personal and health information. As a private allied health provider operating in Victoria, we comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), the Health Records Act 2001 (Victoria), and the Victorian Health Privacy Principles (HPPs). This policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, store and protect your information when you engage with our clinic, whether in person, online, or via telehealth.

2. The Types of Information We Collect

Personal Information may include your full name, date of birth, contact details, address, emergency contact details, Medicare or private health insurance information, and payment details. Health Information (Sensitive Information) may include medical history, presenting concerns, clinical notes, treatment plans, referral letters, test results, medication information, and relevant family health history.

3. How Information Is Collected

We collect information directly from you when you book appointments, complete intake forms, communicate with us, or attend consultations. We may also collect information from referring practitioners, other health providers involved in your care, and Medicare or health funds where relevant. We only collect information necessary to provide our services or operate our clinic.

4. Purpose of Collection

Your information enables us to deliver assessment and treatment, develop and monitor treatment plans, communicate regarding appointments and care, process payments and claims, coordinate care with other health professionals (with consent), meet regulatory obligations, and improve clinic systems. We do not sell, trade or rent your personal information.

5. Disclosure of Information

We may disclose your information to treating health professionals, general practitioners or specialists, Medicare or insurers, secure service providers who support clinic operations, and regulatory authorities where required by law. We take reasonable steps to ensure third-party providers meet privacy and security standards.

6. Consent

By providing your personal information, you consent to its collection and use as outlined in this policy. You may withdraw consent at any time, subject to legal, clinical or contractual limitations. Withdrawal of consent may affect our ability to provide services.

7. Storage and Security of Information

We maintain physical, electronic and administrative safeguards to protect your information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. Security measures include secure practice management systems, password protection, encryption, restricted access, secure backups, and confidential destruction of records when no longer required. Health records are retained in accordance with Victorian legal requirements.

8. Data Breaches

If a data breach occurs that is likely to result in serious harm, we will respond in accordance with the Notifiable Data Breaches Scheme under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), including notification to affected individuals and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner where required.

9. Access and Correction

You may request access to your personal information in writing to our Privacy Officer. We may require identification and may charge a reasonable administrative fee. If information is inaccurate or incomplete, we will take reasonable steps to correct it.

10. Website and Digital Communications

Our website may use cookies or analytics tools to improve user experience. This information is generally non-identifiable. We may send appointment reminders or clinic communications via SMS or email. You may opt out of non-clinical communications at any time.

11. Telehealth Services

Where telehealth services are provided, consultations are conducted via secure platforms. While reasonable steps are taken to protect privacy, electronic communication carries inherent risks. By participating in telehealth, you acknowledge these risks.

12. Complaints and Concerns

If you have a privacy concern or complaint, please contact us in writing. We will acknowledge your complaint within 7 days and aim to resolve it within 30 days. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner or the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner.

13. Contact Details

Privacy Officer
Natalie Anderson

Bellarine Pelvic Health
2/91 The Parade, Ocean Grove, 3226
03 4224 7427
info@bellarinepelvichealth.com.au

14. Policy Updates

We may review and update this Privacy Policy periodically. The current version will always be available via our website.