WHAT INFORMATION IS COLLECTED & WHY?
When you become a patient or client of Kerang District Health’s acute or primary care services, a health record is created. Every time you attend any of our services, information is added to your record. Some of this will be recorded and stored on computer systems, in addition to a paper-based record being maintained.
PERSONAL INFORMATION COLLECTED INCLUDES:
Your name, date of birth, address and contact details. Information for billing, if applicable.
We only collect information that is necessary for us to provide your care and treatment and to perform our functions. We want to ensure that those involved in your care are able to plan your treatment before, during and after your attendance.
QUALITY OF YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
Our aim is to keep your information accurate, complete and up to date at all times. Each time you attend any of our services, we ask that you assist us in updating your details.
Kerang District Health does not use your personal information for the Organisation’s fundraising activities or for other commercial uses.
HOW IS YOUR INFORMATION USED?
PROVISION OF CARE
PLANNING, QUALITY AND RESEARCH
As part of improving medical services and patient safety, a copy of your medical record may be reviewed by a doctor other than your own. A small percentage of records are photocopied and sent offsite to a doctor who provides feedback on improving medical and patient care. After review the photocopied record is shredded. Your personal information is not collected, reproduced or published.
BILLING
PROTECTING YOUR PRIVACY
We ensure personal information is secure through policies regarding access, handling, storage and disposal. The information that is collected about you is stored securely and is only accessed by authorised staff; this includes password security to information stored electronically.
DISCLOSURE
In addition to care provision, planning, quality, research and billing, personal information relating to you can only be disclosed subject to:
The law requiring disclosure, for example:
You (or your next of kin) consenting to the disclosure of information.
DISPOSAL
DHS and the Public Record Office have issued the ‘General Disposal Schedule for Public Health Services Patient Records’. The Schedule is a legal record keeping standard that specifies the period of time for which health records must be retained. All documents containing patient information are destroyed in a confidential manner.
ACCESS TO YOUR INFORMATION
Members of your health care team are the best source of information about your care and treatment. It is important for you to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your condition and treatment with a staff member involved in your care.
In accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic), you have the right to request access to your medical record and personal information held by us.
An application is necessary and you may be required to pay a fee. If you identify information that is incorrect, you have a right to request that it be amended.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
For concerns relating to privacy or requests for further information about our policies, contact the Privacy Officer.
To apply for access to your records, contact Medical Administration.
KERANG DISTRICT HEALTH IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING YOU QUALITY SERVICE WHICH INCLUDES PROTECTING YOUR PRIVACY
Mission Statement
‘Kerang District Health aims to provide comprehensive quality services which are responsive to community needs.’
CONTACT DETAILS
PRIVACY OFFICER
For queries relating to privacy or further information about our policies
(03) 5450 9212
MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION
To apply for access to your record
(03) 5450 9208
HOURS OF OPERATION
8.00 AM - 4.30 PM
MONDAY - FRIDAY