Geelong Sports Medicine Centre (GSMC) values the trust you place in us and is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how GSMC manages your information in compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (including the 2024 amendments), the Information Privacy Act 2000 (Vic), the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), and standards set by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
This policy applies to GSMC employees and its contractors and does not extend to other tenants or entities operating at our premises.
1. Information We Collect
We collect personal and health information to deliver exceptional care and services. The types of information we may collect include:
- Personal Details: Name, address, contact details (e.g., phone number, email), date of birth, gender, sex at birth, and pronouns.
- Health Information: Medical history, symptoms, diagnoses, treatments, medications, and referrals.
- Administrative Information: Appointment details, billing, and payment information.
- Other Information: Any other details you provide during communication or consultations.
We collect this information directly from you through phone, email, online forms, or during in-person interactions with our reception staff or healthcare practitioners. In some cases, we may collect information from third parties, such as referring doctors or other healthcare providers, with your consent or as required by law.
2. How We Use and Disclose Your Information
We collect and use your personal and health information to provide quality care and manage our services effectively. Specifically, your information may be used for:
- Assessing, diagnosing, and treating your medical condition.
- Monitoring and managing your ongoing care and rehabilitation.
- Communicating with you about your appointments, results, and follow-ups.
- Referrals to other healthcare professionals or specialists as part of your care.
- Managing administrative tasks, including billing, payments, and compliance with Medicare or private health insurers.
- Fulfilling legal or regulatory obligations, such as mandatory reporting requirements.
We may disclose your information:
- To other healthcare providers or specialists as part of your treatment.
- To Medicare, private health insurers, AHPRA or other billing entities.
- To IT service providers or external systems used to store or process data, under strict confidentiality agreements.
- As required by law, for example, in response to a court order or to protect public health or safety.
Your information will not be used for any other purpose without your explicit consent, unless permitted by law.
3. Consent and Confidentiality
At GSMC, we adhere to AHPRA’s Code of Conduct and are committed to maintaining confidentiality and respecting your privacy.
- Providing your information is voluntary, but failure to do so may limit our ability to provide accurate diagnosis or treatment.
- By engaging with our services, you consent to the collection and use of your information as outlined in this policy.
- All information is handled ethically and confidentially. Disclosure without your consent will only occur where required by law, such as to prevent a serious threat to public health or safety.
- All GSMC staff and contractors are trained and bound by strict confidentiality agreements in line with AHPRA standards.
4. Managing Health Records
We are committed to maintaining accurate and up-to-date health records. In accordance with AHPRA guidelines, GSMC ensures that:
- Records are accurate, complete, and updated regularly to support continuity of care.
- Records are securely stored in physical or electronic formats, with robust safeguards to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
- Records are retained for the minimum periods required by law, after which they are securely destroyed or de-identified.
5. Accessing and Updating Your Information
You have the right to access your personal and health information and request corrections where needed. To do so:
- Submit a written request to GSMC via mail, email, or in person.
- We will process your request as soon as reasonably possible, subject to any legal restrictions.
If we are unable to fulfill your request, we will provide an explanation in writing.
6. Data Security and Overseas Transfers
Your personal information is stored securely and managed to prevent unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. Where data storage or processing involves overseas cloud services, we ensure that these providers comply with Australian privacy laws and security standards.
7. Direct Marketing and Communication
We may use your contact details to send updates about our services, health tips, or upcoming events. You can opt-out of receiving marketing communications at any time by contacting us or using the unsubscribe link in our emails.
All electronic communications, including email and SMS, are managed securely and in compliance with confidentiality guidelines.
8. Children’s Privacy
We take special care when collecting and using the information of children. Parents or guardians must provide consent for individuals under 18 years of age.
9. Complaints and Feedback
If you have concerns about how your personal information has been handled, please contact us directly. Complaints can be made in writing, and we aim to resolve them promptly.
If you are dissatisfied with our response, you can contact:
Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)
GPO Box 5218,
Sydney
NSW 2001
Phone: 1300 363 992
Website: www.oaic.gov.au
10. Social Media and Public Communication
In line with AHPRA’s guidelines, GSMC staff are trained to maintain confidentiality when using social media or other public communication platforms. Personal health information will never be shared in these forums and permission will be sought to use your imagery.
11. Policy Updates
This Privacy Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it reflects changes in privacy laws and business practices. Updated versions will be available on our website and at reception. We will notify clients of significant changes where appropriate.
Contact Us
For any inquiries, requests, or feedback regarding your personal information, please contact:
Geelong Sports Medicine Centre (GSMC)
1- 5 Ballarat Road
North Geelong
VIC 3215
Phone: 03 52222047
Email: info@gsmc.net.au