Privacy Policy

Purpose

At Total Nursing, we are committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of our clients’ personal and health information. This policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal and health data in compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Scope

This Privacy and Confidentiality Policy ensures that we meet our legal obligations in handling your personal and sensitive health information and maintain trust and transparency in the services we provide. It applies to all staff, contractors, and third-party service providers working with Total Nursing.

Policy

What Information Do We Collect?

In the course of providing our services, we collect personal and health-related information, including but not limited to:

  • Personal Information: Full name, address, phone number, email address, date of birth.
  • Health Information: Medical history, current health conditions, diagnoses, treatments, medications, and care needs.
  • Billing and Payment Information: Health insurance details, billing records, and payment history.
  • Emergency Contacts: Names and contact details of family members or other emergency contacts.

How We Use Your Information

Your personal and health information is used for the following purposes:

  • Providing Care: To ensure we provide the appropriate care, treatment, and support that meet your needs.
  • Billing and Payments: For billing purposes, including processing insurance claims, payments, and financial records.
  • Communication: To notify you of appointments, treatment updates, or changes to your care plan.
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: To comply with health regulations and legal obligations as required by law.

Confidentiality of Your Information

We treat all personal and health information as confidential and ensure that it is only shared with individuals or entities who are legally authorised or have your consent to access it.

  • Access Control: Only authorised personnel, such as healthcare providers directly involved in your care, have access to your personal and health information.
  • Internal Safeguards: Our staff members are trained to handle your information securely and respectfully. They are required to sign confidentiality agreements.
  • External Disclosure: Your information will be shared with third parties unless:
  • We have your explicit instruction to not share. .
  • It is necessary for your care in an emergency situation. 
  • It is required by law (e.g., in cases of child protection, legal investigations, or when required by regulatory bodies).

Data Security

We take reasonable steps to protect your information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, and disclosure. Our security measures include:

  • Secure Storage: Electronic records are stored on secure systems with encryption and access controls, while paper records are kept in locked cabinets.
  • Data Retention: Your personal and health information will only be retained for as long as necessary to provide care and in accordance with legal or regulatory requirements. Once no longer needed, your information will be securely destroyed or de-identified.

Access to Your Information

You have the right to access and request a copy of the personal and health information we hold about you. If you believe any of the information is incorrect, you can request that it be corrected.

To request access or corrections, please contact us using the details provided below.

Your Rights

  • Right to Privacy: You have the right to privacy and can control the use and disclosure of your personal information.
  • Right to Complain: If you believe your privacy has been compromised or your information has been misused, you may lodge a complaint with us or the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

Changes to this Policy

We may update this Privacy and Confidentiality Policy from time to time. If any changes are made, we will notify you through our website or directly via email, depending on the nature of the changes.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about how your personal or health information is handled, or if you wish to access or update your information, please contact us at:

Total Nursing

Phone: 0484 952 236

Email: info@totalnursing.com.au

Address: 190 Ontario Avenue, Mildura, Vic 3500

For complaints or concerns about privacy, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at:

OAIC

Phone: 1300 363 992

Website: http://www.oaic.gov.au

Consent

By using our services, you acknowledge and consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal and health information as outlined in this Privacy and Confidentiality Policy.