Privacy Health Information

The Federal Privacy Commissioner has released a new health information privacy brochure which clarifies Australians’ privacy rights when it comes to their personal health information.

Federal Privacy Commissioner, Malcolm Crompton says more than 1000 people have called his office in the last five months to inquire about health information and privacy.

He says this represents about 12% of all calls to his Office and shows that people are very concerned about their health information.

The publication outlines:

 which health services are covered by the Privacy Act;
 what constitutes health information under the Privacy Act;
 the meaning of consent; and
 various scenarios showing consumers’ key rights in relation to collection, use and disclosure, and
 access to personal health information in the private health sector.

If you would like an electronic copy of this brochure in Word format just send us an e-mail to probono@probonoaustralia.com.au.