Privacy and Complaint
Practice Privacy Policy
The new privacy rules came into effect 1.7.2002.The following is an outline of the main privacy rules as they apply to patients of this clinic• Information will only be collected where necessary to ensure that quality care is delivered, and with the consent of the individual.• Information will be used or disclosed only for the primary purpose for which it was collected. Secondary use of information will only occur with the specific consent of the patient.• Individuals have a right of access to information kept about them. If requested patients will be provided with documentation outlining the Clinic’s Privacy Policy.• Patient records will be transferred to other Health Service Providers only if the patient so requests in writing.• Access to patient records is restricted to authorised personnel within the clinic.• We do not send information by fax, e-mail or SMS to ensure that privacy is protected as these are insecure modes of communication• Patients should not send faxes, emails or SMS text messages which contain personal or sensitive information, to the clinic to ensure that their privacy is maintained. These methods of communication are not secure.
Prescribing Policy
• This practice does not prescribe Benzodiazepines, Opiates or other restricted medications• We cannot provide new or repeat prescriptions without a consultation.• We are not able to fax or email scripts to other locations or pharmacies.
Patient Feedback
The practice aim is to provide a comprehensive service to all patients. From time to time this practice invites patients to complete a questionnaire on their views of the practice and how it could be improved. These are confidential and help to improve the service. A suggestion box has been provided to allow for more immediate feedback.Complaints about the PracticeAlthough we aim to provide a service which meets the needs of all patients, we recognise that, at times, dissatisfaction occurs. If you have any complaints or problems regarding the service provided or charges made, please do not hesitate to talk to your own doctor or contact a member of the management team.We believe that problems are best dealt with within the practice. However, if there is a problem you wish to take up outside, then you may prefer to contact the Health Complaints Commissioner, 26/570 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Phone 1300 582 113
AGPAL ACCREDITED
United Medical Centre is accredited with AGPAL, offering a broad range of quality services. The practice is accredited for training medical students. We also participate in Quality Control Initiatives and Continuing Education.