Introduction

This notice outlines how Healthdirect Australia Ltd will collect, use, protect and share your information when you engage with healthdirect GP services.

Why your information is being collected

Healthdirect Australia Ltd collects and uses personal and health information to provide you with healthdirect GP services. The healthdirect GP services are call-back services that require you to provide identifying details to access the service. You will not be able to receive this service if you choose to remain anonymous or provide a pseudonym.

How is information collected

We generally collect this information directly from you. On occasion we may collect information about you from persons or sources other than yourself (for example, a family member, authorised representative that is assisting you or My Health Record). If you do not provide this information, we may only be able to provide limited healthcare services to you.

The types of information collected

• your name and date of birth;
• socio-demographic information, such as your age and sex, dependants, occupation and postcode;
• contact details, such as your address, email address and phone number;
• sensitive health information about your illnesses, symptoms you have experienced, any disabilities or other health services you are receiving or are to be provided in the future, or any medications that you may be taking, and where clinically relevant, sensitive information about your ethnic background or sexual practices;
• government issued identifiers such as your Medicare number, Veteran Card details, and other healthcare identifiers; and
• recordings of your audio and video calls.

If you do not wish to have your audio or video call recorded, please advise our staff as soon as you speak to them.

How your information will be used

Your information is primarily used to provide you with healthdirect GP services. We may also use this information for internal purposes, including quality assurance, service improvements and staff training.

How your information may be disclosed

We disclose your personal and health information to:

• companies that conduct surveys for us to seek your feedback on the service that you've received. If you do not wish for your information to be sent to our survey partners, please tell our staff as soon as you speak with them. With your consent, a summary of your GP Helpline consult can be:
  • sent to you via SMS
  • sent to your nominated general practitioner (GP)
  • uploaded to your My Health Record.

How is your information kept secure

Healthdirect has an obligation to ensure that the personal and sensitive information that you provide is appropriately protected from misuse, interference and loss, and from unauthorised access, modification and disclosure.

Further information

Our Privacy Policy for members of the public explains in more detail how we process personal information, including how you can access or correct information we hold about you and how to contact us.