Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy – Lithgow Dental & Implant Centre
At Lithgow Dental & Implant Centre (“we”, “our”, “us”), your privacy is very important to us. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and share your personal and health information in accordance with: – Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) – Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 (NSW) (HRIP Act) and Health Privacy Principles (HPPs).
Information We Collect
We may collect:
- Personal details: Name, date of birth, contact info, emergency contacts.
- Health information: Medical and dental history, X-rays, photos, medications, allergies, treatment plans (Under the HRIP Act, “health information” means information or an opinion about your health or a health service you receive or will receive.)
- Other information: Payment details, insurance info, referral details.
We collect this information to provide safe and effective dental care:
How We Collect Information
We usually collect information:
- Directly from you via appointment forms, online bookings, emails, phone calls, or consultations.
- From third parties, such as referring dentists, specialists, or your health insurer (with your consent or as allowed by law).
We will let you know the purpose of collection and who will receive your information at the time it is collected.
How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide dental services, treatments, and advice.
- Manage appointments, reminders, and communications.
- Process payments and insurance claims.
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
We will not use your information for marketing without your consent.
Disclosure of Information
Your information may be shared with:
- Our dental and administrative staff as required for your care.
- Referring dentists, specialists, laboratories, or other health professionals relevant to your treatment (with your consent or as allowed by NSW law).
- Health insurers or government agencies if required by law.
We will never sell your information. If we transfer your information interstate or overseas, we take reasonable steps to ensure it is protected.
Data Storage and Security
We take reasonable steps to protect your information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure, including:
- Secure electronic records and password-protected systems.
- Locked storage for physical documents.
- Access limited to authorised personnel only.
We comply with HPP 5 (Retention and Security) of the HRIP Act.
Access and Correction
You have the right to:
- Access your personal and health information.
- Request corrections to any incorrect or incomplete information.
Under NSW law, we will provide access or correction unless a legal exception applies.
To request access or correction: – Phone: (02) 6399 0622 – Email: info@lithgowdentalandimplants.com.au
We may need to verify your identity before providing access.
Retention of Information
We keep your records in line with legal and professional requirements:
- Adults: Minimum 7 years after last visit (or longer if required).
- Minors: At least until 7 years after turning 18 (or longer if required.
Complaints
If you believe your privacy has been breached:
- Call (02) 6399 0622
- Email info@lithgowdentalandimplants.com.au
If you are dissatisfied with our response, you may also contact: – Information and Privacy Commission NSW (IPC) – Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
We will cooperate fully with any investigation.
Consent
- By using our services, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your information as described in this Privacy Policy.