Caloundra Gastroenterology
Effective: July 2025

At Caloundra Gastroenterology, we are committed to providing high-quality specialist care in a safe, respectful, and confidential environment. We are bound by the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002, and applicable guidelines from the Australian Medical Association (AMA) and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

This policy outlines how we manage your personal health information, uphold confidentiality, and foster respectful communication between patients and staff.

We collect personal and health information that is necessary to provide you with specialist medical care. This may include:

• Personal details (e.g., name, address, date of birth)
• Medicare and private health insurance details
• Medical history, test results, imaging, referrals, and clinical notes

Your information is used for purposes such as:

• Diagnosing and treating medical conditions
• Liaising with referring doctors and other healthcare providers
• Administrative tasks (e.g., billing, correspondence, appointment reminders)
• Quality assurance, education, and clinical audits (in de-identified form where applicable)

All information is collected with your informed consent and stored securely in line with legal obligations.

We may share your health information with:

• Your referring GP or other treating practitioners
• Authorised Emergency contacts as nominated by you or your activated EPOA
• Pathology and diagnostic imaging providers
• Hospitals or other healthcare institutions involved in your care
• Third-party service providers who support clinical administration (e.g., medical transcription or practice management software providers)

We will not disclose your information to any third party without your consent unless required or authorised by law.

We take reasonable steps to protect your personal and health information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure. Our electronic systems are encrypted, password protected, and backed up securely. Physical records, if any, are stored in locked and monitored facilities.

You have the right to request access to your medical records and to request corrections if you believe any information is inaccurate or incomplete. Please speak to our patient liaison team or email your request in writing. 

We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and respectful space for all. Our staff are here to help you, and we ask that all patients and visitors engage with courtesy and professionalism.

Unacceptable behaviours include (but are not limited to):

• Aggressive, threatening, or abusive language or conduct
• Demands for immediate or unscheduled services
• Disrespectful or discriminatory remarks

Breaches of this code of conduct may result in the discontinuation of care. In such instances, your referral will be returned to your general practitioner (GP) for ongoing management.

We appreciate your understanding in helping maintain a professional and safe clinical environment for everyone.

As part of our commitment to efficient and accurate clinical documentation, this practice may use AI-assisted transcription software to support medical dictation. This technology allows our clinicians to focus on personal interaction during your consultation while ensuring your medical notes are recorded clearly and accurately.

If you prefer that AI-assisted software not be used during your consultation, please inform our staff at the time of your arrival. Your preference will be respected and recorded in your file.

If you have any questions about this policy or wish to make a complaint about a breach of privacy or conduct, please contact our Practice Manager at manager@caloundragastro.com You may also contact:

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)
Website: www.oaic.gov.au
Phone: 1300 363 992

Thank you for entrusting us with your specialist care. Your privacy, safety, and dignity are our highest priority.

Signed,

Dr Anna Samidurai B.HlthSci (Nutri), PhD

Owner/Director of Clinical Affairs and Engagement
Caloundra Gastroenterology
Ph: 5499 7366