Privacy Policy – Gastroenterology Services
At Gold Coast Gastroenterology, protecting your privacy and personal information is a top priority. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect the information of our patients and website visitors in compliance with applicable privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) where applicable, and local regulations.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information:
- Personal Information: Name, date of birth, gender, address, phone number, email address, emergency contacts.
- Health Information: Medical history, current symptoms, medications, diagnostic results, imaging, laboratory results, allergies, and treatment plans.
- Payment Information: Billing details, insurance information, and payment records.
- Website Information: IP addresses, browsing behavior, cookies, and usage analytics when visiting our website.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide personalised gastroenterology care, including consultations, diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up.
- Maintain accurate medical records and ensure continuity of care.
- Communicate with you about appointments, test results, reminders, and educational information.
- Process payments and insurance claims.
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
- Improve our services and website functionality.
3. Disclosure of Information
We do not sell or rent your personal information. Your information may be shared:
- With Healthcare Providers: To facilitate your care, including referrals to specialists, labs, or hospitals.
- With Insurance Providers: For billing and claim purposes.
- As Required by Law: To comply with legal obligations, court orders, or public health requirements.
- With Service Providers: Third-party services that assist with appointment scheduling, IT, or analytics may have limited access under strict confidentiality agreements.
4. Data Storage and Security
- All patient records are stored securely, whether electronically or in paper form.
- Electronic data is encrypted and protected by secure access controls.
- Physical records are kept in locked facilities with restricted access.
- Our staff are trained on confidentiality and privacy practices.
5. Patient Rights
You have the right to:
- Access your medical records.
- Request corrections to your personal or medical information.
- Request restrictions on how your information is used or shared.
- Receive a copy of this Privacy Policy and any updates.
- Withdraw consent where applicable, subject to certain legal or medical obligations.
6. Online and Website Privacy
- Our website may use cookies and analytics to enhance user experience.
- No personal health information is collected through the website unless you voluntarily submit it via forms or contact requests.
- Data submitted online is securely transmitted and handled in accordance with this Privacy Policy.
7. Retention of Information
- Patient records are retained for a minimum period as required by law and medical best practices.
- After the retention period, records are securely destroyed or anonymised.
8. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The updated version will be posted on our website with the effective date. Significant changes will be communicated to patients where appropriate.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions, concerns, or complaints regarding your privacy or this Privacy Policy, please contact
Gold Coast Gastroenterology
Address: Suite 7, level 4/123 Nerang St, Southport QLD 4215, Australia
Phone: (07) 5620 1155
Fax:
(07) 5620 1160