What information does St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney collect about me?
When you become a patient of St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, a record is made containing information such as your name, address, date of birth, contact details, Medicare number, your doctor’s details and the nature of the problem for which you seek treatment. New information is added to your record every time you attend an appointment with us. Please let our administration staff know if your details have changed since your last visit.
Why is this information collected?
St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney only collects information that is needed to ensure your best possible care. 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 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 regarding the confidentiality of your information. We educate and monitor staff to ensure information is handled confidentially, with respect, and with care.
Who might receive information regarding my care and treatment?
Your referring doctor – We routinely send the x-rays or scans and a report of the findings to the doctor who organised the test for you.
Other hospitals or new doctors – Another hospital or a new doctor may contact us to obtain information about you so they can treat you safely and effectively. We will release information about you that will assist in your care.
Others – In some circumstances, laws obligate us to release personal information about you. For example, as evidence in court, or to state and federal authorities.
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. Suppose you are not satisfied with the way in which we handle your information or deal with your privacy concerns.
In that case, you may wish to contact the Health Services Commissioner, see the number below.
Contact:03 8601 5225
