Introduction

This Privacy Policy outlines how Lakes Radiology (ABN 57 724 241 844), referred to as “Lakes Radiology,” “we,” “our,” or “us,” collects, uses, protects, and discloses personal information. We are committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of personal information collected from patients, healthcare professionals, employees, service providers, suppliers, and other individuals or entities we interact with during our operations.

This Policy complies with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and other relevant legislation governing private sector health service providers.

Lakes Radiology may update this Policy periodically. Any changes will be posted on our website promptly. By providing personal information to Lakes Radiology, you consent to its collection, use, and disclosure as described in this Policy.

Why Do We Collect Personal Information?

Lakes Radiology collects personal information to provide medical imaging and related healthcare services. While providing personal information is voluntary, withholding necessary details may impact the quality of services we offer and, in some cases, prevent us from delivering the required care.

Who Do We Collect Personal Information From?

We collect personal information from:

• Patients.
• Healthcare professionals.
• Employees.
• Service providers and suppliers.
• Other individuals or entities engaged in our operations.

When direct collection is not feasible, we may obtain information from:

• A spouse, partner, carer, or close family member.
• A healthcare provider or facility involved in your care.
• An emergency contact or an attorney under an enduring power of attorney or advance health directive.
• The My Health Record Program (if opted in).
• Health insurers, law enforcement agencies, or government bodies.

How Do We Collect Personal Information?

Information is primarily collected directly from patients, healthcare professionals, and other associated parties through:

• Registration forms completed at clinics.
• Phone calls, emails, or in-person consultations.
• Our website.

If direct collection isn’t possible, we may gather information from other sources, such as your doctor or other healthcare providers.

What Type of Information Do We Collect?

The type of personal information collected depends on the services provided and includes:

• Basic Details: Name, age, gender, date of birth, and contact information.
• Health Information: Medical history, diagnostic test results, medications, allergies, family history, and social history (e.g., religion or ethnicity, if relevant).
• Identifiers: Medicare numbers, private health insurance details.
• Clinical Data: Images, samples, immunizations, and treatment plans.
• Administrative Information: Billing and correspondence records.
• Employee Details: Employment history, pre-employment checks, and training records.

How Do We Store and Protect Personal Information?

We store personal information in multiple formats, including electronic records, paper files, medical images, and, where appropriate, audio or video recordings.

Security Measures Include:

• Encryption and firewalls.
• Access controls to limit unauthorized access.
• Regularly updated technology and processes.

All staff sign Confidentiality Agreements to maintain strict confidentiality. When no longer needed, information is securely destroyed or de-identified, except where retention is required by law.

How Do We Use and Disclose Personal Information?

We use and disclose personal information to:

• Provide medical imaging and reporting services.
• Communicate with healthcare providers involved in your care.
• Coordinate referrals or second opinions.
• Inform authorized representatives (e.g., guardians or carers) about your care.
• Fulfill administrative requirements like billing and insurance claims.
• Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
• Perform quality assurance, audits, and staff training.
• Respond to inquiries, complaints, and legal matters.

We may also de-identify data for research and analysis purposes.

International Data Storage

Lakes Radiology may store, access, or process data with entities outside Australia. We ensure that all partners adhere to Australian privacy laws, including signing Confidentiality and Privacy Agreements.

Accessing and Correcting Personal Information

We are committed to maintaining accurate and up-to-date records. If you need to access or update your information, contact our Human Resource/Privacy Manager. Proof of identity may be required, and reasonable fees may apply for access requests.

Secure Web-Based Portal
Patients and registered healthcare providers can access reports and images via our secure portal upon request.

For further inquiries, please contact Lakes Radiology.

Privacy Enquiries or Complaints

If you have concerns or complaints about how we handle your personal information, please contact:

EMAIL | mgilbert@carlislehealth.com.au 

If your concerns are unresolved, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC):

GPO Box 5218 Sydney, NSW 2001
EMAIL | enquiries@oaic.gov.au
PHONE | 1300 363 992
WEBSITE | www.oaic.gov.au