Your Privacy

As your health practitioner, your privacy is my top priority. This policy explains what information I collect, why I need it, and how I keep it safe.

In short: I collect your health information to take care of you. I store it on a secure systems (including METS_iQ). I am responsible for your data, and I will not share it without your permission unless I am required to by law.

Who is Who?

  • Me (Your Practitioner): I am [Practitioner Name/Your Clinic Name]. I am the one providing your healthcare and am responsible for protecting your private information in respect of my standing as a registered health practitioner.
  • Metabolic Health Solutions Pty Ltd (MHS): Provide the secure software (called METS_iQ) that I use to store your health records. Think of them as my secure digital filing cabinet.
  • I am also contracted by MHS to provide you with healthcare services.

What Information Do I Collect?

To give you the best possible care, I need to collect information like:

  • Your name and contact details (phone, email, address).
  • Your health history, medications, and lifestyle details.
  • My clinical notes, test results, and treatment plans for you.
  • Your Medicare or health insurance details (for billing).

Why Do I Need Your Information?

I only use your information to:

  • Provide you with healthcare.
  • Manage your treatment and appointments.
  • Handle billing with Medicare or your health fund.
  • Communicate with you or other specialists (with your permission).

How Is Your Information Stored Securely?

I use the METS_iQ digital system to store your health records. This system is run by MHS, my specialist technology partner. They are required to use high-level security (like encryption) to protect your data from being lost or seen by anyone who shouldn't.

Who Do I Share Your Information With?

I will not share your health information without your say-so, except for these specific reasons:

  • Your Other Doctors: If you agree, I can share your records with your GP or other specialists to help with your care.
  • Billing: I share basic details with Medicare or your health insurer so you can get your rebate.
  • The Law: In very rare cases, I might be forced to share information if required by a court order or other legal demand.
  • My Tech Partner (MHS): They store your data on their secure system and use in accordance with their patient privacy policy.

Your Data and Research (Your Choice!)

Sometimes, de-identified data (where all your personal details are removed) can be useful for academic research.

I will never use your information for research unless you have given your clear, "opt- in" permission first. It is completely your choice, and saying "no" will not affect your care in any way.

How Long Do I Keep Your Records?

By law, all health practitioners must keep patient records for a minimum of 7 years after your last visit. (If you are under 18, I must keep them until you turn 25). After that time, your records are securely and permanently destroyed.

Your Rights: Seeing or Correcting Your Info

You have the right to ask for a copy of your health information that I hold. You can also ask me to correct anything that you think is wrong or out of date.

Just send me an email at [Practitioner's Email Address]. I'll respond within 30 days.

Got a Complaint?

If you have any concerns about your privacy, please tell me first. I take this very seriously and will do my best to fix the problem.

  • Step 1: Contact me directly at [Practitioner's Email Address] or [Practitioner's Phone Number].
  • Step 2: In circumstances where I am unable to help you and the data in question relates to METS_iQ, then in line with their patient privacy policy you may need to contact them.
  • Step 3: If you're not happy with the outcome of those steps, you have the right to make a formal complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC). They are the independent government body for privacy. You can find them at www.oaic.gov.au.