Privacy Policy
Sue Sheppard Acupuncture
Sue Sheppard Acupuncture is committed to protecting your privacy and complying with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the National Law applicable to registered health practitioners.
This policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose and manage your personal information, including sensitive health information, in a safe, respectful and lawful manner.
What Information We Collect
We may collect personal information including:
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Your full name, date of birth and contact details
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Medical history and health information relevant to your care
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Appointment and treatment records
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Payment and health fund details, where applicable
We collect this information to provide safe and appropriate healthcare, communicate with you about your care, and meet our legal and professional obligations
How Information Is Collected
Your information may be collected when:
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You fill out an intake form or provide information during a consultation
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You contact us via phone, email, or online booking systems
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Another health provider shares information with your consent
All information is collected directly from you unless it is unreasonable or impractical to do so.
Use and Disclosure of Information
Your personal information is used solely to:
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Provide safe and individualised healthcare services
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Maintain accurate clinical records
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Communicate with you about your appointments or treatment
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Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
We do not share your information with third parties unless:
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You have provided written consent
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It is required by law (e.g. a court subpoena)
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There is a serious threat to your life, health, or safety
Data Storage and Secruity
Your records are stored securely in physical or electronic formats, protected by appropriate safeguards against unauthorised access, loss or misuse in accordance with Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
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We retain health records for the minimum period required by law (generally 7 years, or until a minor turns 25, whichever is longer).
Accessing and Correcting Your Information
You have the right to request access to your personal information and to request corrections if it is inaccurate or incomplete.
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To make a request, please contact us in writing using the details below. We may need to verify your identity before providing access.
Online Booking and Website Use
If you use our online booking system or contact form, your information may be temporarily stored through third-party service providers. We only use reputable providers who comply with privacy and data protection standards.
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Our website may collect basic analytics data (e.g. page visits, device type) to help improve our services. No identifiable health information is collected through website analytics.
Contact and Complaints
If you have a question or concern about your privacy, please contact:
Sue Sheppard Acupuncture.
If you're not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC):
Website: www.oaic.gov.au
Updates to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in legal or professional obligations. The most current version will always be available on our website.