Privacy Policy
A clear statement on how we safeguard the personal and health information you entrust to us.
Our commitment to your privacy
Dr Cameron Handford and his practice are committed to protecting the privacy of patient information. We understand that medical information is deeply personal. This policy explains how we handle your health data in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles. It is a statement of our respect for your confidentiality.
We collect information that is necessary for your care. This includes personal details such as your name, date of birth and contact information. It also includes sensitive health data such as your medical history, referral letters, imaging results and treatment notes. We collect this directly from you, your referring doctor or a treating physiotherapist. In some cases, we receive information from a hospital or another health service involved in your care.
How we use and disclose your information
We use your information primarily to provide you with the best possible orthopaedic care. This means assessing your condition, recommending treatment and performing surgery where needed. We will disclose relevant clinical details in correspondence back to your referring GP or physiotherapist. With your consent, we may also share information with other specialists, hospitals or allied health professionals involved in your treatment. We use your contact details for appointment reminders and billing. We do not use your health information for direct marketing.
There are limited circumstances where we may be required by law to disclose information. This could include a subpoena or a mandatory notification. We will always seek to inform you if this occurs.
Data security and storage
We hold your personal information in a combination of secure electronic practice management software and protected physical files. We take reasonable steps to protect your data from misuse, interference, loss and unauthorised access. Our website uses analytics tools to understand general traffic patterns. These tools collect non-identifying data such as your browser type and the pages you visit. We use cookies to improve your browsing experience. You can disable cookies in your browser settings. This site does not collect your personal health information through its contact forms. Any information you submit via the website is sent securely to our administrative team.
Accessing and correcting your information
You have a right to request access to the personal and health information we hold about you. You also have the right to ask us to correct any information that is inaccurate or out of date. To make a request, please contact our practice manager in writing. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe, as required by law. There is no charge for making a request, though a small fee may apply for providing copies of records.
If you have a concern about how we have handled your privacy, please contact us directly. We take all complaints seriously and will work to resolve them promptly. You also have the right to contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
Contact for privacy inquiries
For all privacy-related questions, to request access to your records or to make a complaint, please contact our practice manager.
Phone: 02 8379 6777
Fax: 02 8379 6706
Email: drcameronhandford@gmail.com
Post: Central 105, Shop 7
105 Longueville Road
Lane Cove NSW 2066