Privacy policy

Information we collect

We collect information relevant to providing and managing your care, including contact details, medical and family health history, assessment findings, treatment records and billing information. We usually collect this directly from you. Where needed, we obtain relevant information from another healthcare provider with your consent.

We handle personal and health information in accordance with applicable Australian privacy laws, including the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles.

How we use and share information

We use your information to assess your health, plan and provide treatment, maintain clinical records, manage appointments and process payments or rebates.

With your consent, relevant information may be shared with other healthcare providers, such as imaging providers or medical specialists. Where relevant to your care or claim, information may also be provided to Medicare, MAIB, DVA or your private health fund for billing, rebates or reporting. We limit disclosure to information needed for the purpose and explain when your consent is required.

Information may also be disclosed where required or authorised by law, including in response to a valid subpoena or mandatory reporting obligation.

Storage and retention

Clinical records are stored in Cliniko, our cloud-based practice management system. Paper records are uploaded to that system and the originals securely destroyed. We take reasonable steps to protect information from misuse, loss and unauthorised access, modification or disclosure.

Our clinic’s retention policy is to retain clinical records for seven years after your last consultation or, for patients who are minors, until they turn 25. Records may be retained longer where required by law.

Accessing or correcting your information

You may request access to, or a copy of, your personal and health information, ask for a correction, or request that records be transferred to another healthcare provider. You do not need to give a reason for requesting access.

Please send requests in writing to nwosteopathyclinic@gmail.com. We may need to verify your identity and clarify the records requested. If access or a correction cannot be provided, we will explain why and how you can raise a complaint, subject to applicable law.

Website, bookings and analytics

Online bookings are handled through Cliniko. This website uses Google Analytics to understand visits and interactions, including clicks on booking, phone and email links. Google Analytics may use cookies and collect information such as pages visited, device and browser details, and approximate location.

We use analytics to understand website use. Clicking a contact link is recorded as an interaction; this tracking does not record the content of your call or email.

Website service providers, including Google, may process information overseas, including in the United States and other countries where they operate. You can manage cookies through your browser settings. Further information is available in Google’s privacy policy and Cliniko’s privacy policy.

Questions or privacy complaints

Contact the clinic at nwosteopathyclinic@gmail.com or 0488 776 847 or write to North West Osteopathy Clinic, 64 North Fenton Street, Devonport TAS 7310. Please explain your concern so we can investigate and respond.

If your concern remains unresolved, you can contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).