Privacy Policy

At Tuart Family Practice, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your information in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles under the Privacy Act 1988.

1. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information to provide quality healthcare services, which may include:

  • Your name, contact details, date of birth, and Medicare details.
  • Medical history, treatment details, and health information.
  • Payment information for billing purposes.

We may collect this information directly from you, your authorized representatives, or other healthcare providers.

2. Use of Personal Information

The information collected is used to:

  • Provide medical treatment and services.
  • Communicate with you about appointments and care.
  • Fulfill administrative and billing purposes.
  • Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.

3. Disclosure of Personal Information

We may disclose your personal information to:

  • Other healthcare providers involved in your care.
  • Medicare, private health insurers, or billing agencies.
  • Third-party service providers, such as pathology and imaging services.
  • Regulatory or legal authorities, where required by law.

4. Data Security

We take all reasonable steps to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. This includes secure storage systems, staff training, and confidentiality agreements.

5. Online Privacy

Our website may collect non-identifiable information such as IP addresses and cookies to improve your browsing experience. Personal information submitted through online forms is handled securely and in accordance with this policy.

6. Appointment Cancellation Policy

Appointments can be cancelled or rescheduled up to 3 hours prior to the scheduled appointment time.

A Did Not Attend (DNA) fee will apply for appointments cancelled with less than 3 hours' notice or where a patient does not attend their scheduled appointment.

7. Access and Correction

You have the right to access and correct your personal information. To request access or make corrections, please contact our practice directly.

8. Complaints

If you have concerns about how we handle your personal information, please contact us. We will address your complaint promptly and in accordance with our obligations.

9. Updates to this Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The latest version will always be available on our website.