What information does Heartscope Specialist Group collect about me?
When you become a patient of Heartscope Specialist Group a record is made containing information such as your name, address, date of birth, emergency contacts, general practitioner (GP) contact details, the nature of the problem for which you sought treatment and the investigations, treatment and advice you were given. Every time you attend Heartscope Specialist Group for healthcare services or consultations, new information is added to your medical record.
Why is information collected?
Heartscope Specialist Group collects the information we need to ensure that you receive the best possible care and to manage the health service effectively. Your previous medical history helps us identify which treatments are likely to be safe and effective for you and reduces the likelihood of repeating tests that you have had in the past. To help look after your own health we ask that you provide us with accurate and complete information.
How do you protect my information?
Information about you is stored in a medical record that is kept securely within our health service. Information about you is also located within the organisation’s password- protected computer system and is available to healthcare professionals who are involved in your care.
We maintain strict policies regarding who has the authority to access your personal information. All our staff are bound by a formal code of conduct about the confidentiality of your information. We educate and monitor staff to ensure information is handled confidentially and with respect and care.
If you attend another facility within Heartscope Specialist Group, some information about you may be made available to healthcare professionals at that facility. Again, this is necessary to ensure that you receive quality care and avoids duplication of tests and clinical assessments.
Who might receive information regarding my care and treatment?
Your local GP
procedure or for consultation. The letter summarises your time at Heartscope Specialist Group, your medication and any special instructions your doctor needs to know about. We also usually send a letter to your GP following a visit to a Heartscope Specialist Group outpatient clinic, although this is not the case for every visit.
Sometimes your GP will contact Heartscope Specialist Group for additional information about your treatment. In this situation, we will only release information to the doctor you have specified as your GP on the patient registration form.
Other hospitals or new doctors
A hospital or a new GP or Specialist may contact us to obtain information about you, so
that they can treat you safely and effectively. We will release personal information about you to assist with your care provided the appropriate Patient Information Request Form has been submitted. This form can be downloaded from or Electronic Templates & Other Info.
Relatives
General information about your condition may be provided to your next of kin or a near relative, unless you request otherwise.
Will anyone else receive information about me?
In some circumstances, laws oblige us to release personal information about you. Examples of this include:
– presentation of your medical record as evidence in court when subpoenaed
– compulsory reporting to state and federal authorities.
Sometimes one of your treating health professionals may write to you about a research study that you may be eligible to join. You can choose if you would like to be involved.
How can I access my information?
If you want more information or if you do not understand an aspect of your care, the best person to speak to is someone in your healthcare team. In accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 1982, you have the right to make a written application for access to your medical record and personal information held by Heartscope Specialist Group. An administration and copying fee may be charged. If there is information in the record that you believe is incorrect, you have the right to request that it be corrected.
What should I do if I have a complaint about privacy?
If you have any questions regarding what happens to the information about you, please speak to a staff member. If you would like a copy of our privacy policy or wish to make a privacy complaint contact Heartscope Specialist Group Practice Manager on 1800 202 111. If you are not satisfied with the way in which in which we handle your information or your privacy concerns, you may wish wish to make a formal complaint to the Health Services Commissioner on (03) 8601 5225.
