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This document describes the policy of LifeConnect Pty Ltd for the management of client information.  The psychological services provided are bound by the legal requirements of the National Privacy Principles from the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector) Act 2000.  Registered Psychologists are bound by the Psychologist's Registration Board's Code of Ethical Conduct.   

Client Information  

Client files are held securely and are accessible only to authorised employees of the practice.  The information on each file includes personal information such as name, address, contact phone numbers and other information relevant to the psychological service being provided.  

Purpose of holding information

The information is gathered as part of the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of the client's condition and is seen only by authorised employees of the practice. The information is retained in order to document what happens during sessions, and enables the psychologist to provide a relevant and informed service.

Requests for access to client information

At any stage clients may request to see the information about them kept on file. The psychologist may discuss the contents with them. All requests by clients for access to information held about them should be lodged with their treating psychologist. These requests will be responded to within 14 days and an appointment made if  necessary for clarification purposes.

Release of confidential information

All personal information gathered by your psychologist will remain confidential and secure except when:

It is subpoenaed by a court, or  

Failure to disclose the information would place you or another  person at risk of harm, or

Your prior approval has been obtained to communicate with (in writing or verbally) another professional or agency (see below).

Following on from Point 3 above, it may at times be necessary, in order to provide you with the best treatment, for your psychologist to collaborate with other professionals involved in your care. These may include, for example, your general practitioner and/or your medical specialist(s). If your psychologist feels it would be helpful to contact one of these persons, you will first be asked for approval in writing. 

Concerns

If you have a concern about the management of your personal information, please inform your treating psychologist. Upon request you can obtain a copy of the National Privacy Principles, which describe your rights and how your information should be handled.