Privacy Policy

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I'm committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information responsibly. This Privacy Policy outlines how I, Sarva Health,  collect, use, and disclose your information, and your access rights, and how to address any concerns you may have.

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This Policy complies with all relevant privacy laws and regulations, including the Privacy Act 1988, the Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012, and the Australian Privacy Principles. I may update this Policy from time to time, with any changes available on the Sarva Health website and in the practice.

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Information I Collect:

I collect information necessary for your care, such as your name, address, date of birth, gender, health history, family history, and contact details. This information may be stored electronically or physically in files. I collect information in various ways, including phone calls, written forms, in-person consultations, and online interactions. In emergencies, I may also need information from family or friends. By law, I must retain your medical records for specific periods depending on your age.

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How I Use and Disclose Your Information:

I treat your information as strictly confidential and only use it directly related to your care or in ways you would reasonably expect. There are legal or permitted situations where I may disclose your information to third parties, such as Medicare, police, insurers, lawyers, government agencies, courts, hospitals, or debt collectors. I may use external contractors for activities like IT services or debt collection. These contractors are bound by confidentiality agreements and cannot use your information for any purpose other than those I have authorised.

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Data Quality and Security:

I take reasonable steps to ensure your information is accurate, complete, up-to-date, and relevant. This may involve confirming your contact details during appointments. Please inform me if any information I hold is incorrect or outdated. I protect your information through physical and electronic security measures such as secure premises, password-protected databases, and staff training on confidentiality.

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Your Rights:

You have the right to request access to your medical records. Please submit your request in writing, and I will respond within a reasonable timeframe. There may be a fee for administrative costs associated with retrieving and providing copies. In certain circumstances allowed by law, I may deny access to your records, such as if disclosure could seriously harm your health or safety. I will always explain the reason for denial and your options for responding.

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If You Have Concerns:

If you have concerns about your privacy, please contact me in writing. I will investigate your complaint and attempt to resolve it according to my complaint-handling procedures. If you are unhappy with my response, you may file a complaint with the Australian Information Commissioner or The Tasmanian Office of the Ombudsman and Health Complaints Commissioner.

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Overseas Data Transfer:

I will not transfer your information to overseas recipients unless I have your consent or am legally required to do so.