Privacy Policy

1. Introduction
Westgate Medical Centre Heaths Road is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose your information in compliance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

2. Information We Collect
We may collect and store the following types of personal information:

• Name, date of birth, and contact details (address, phone number, email)

• Medicare and private health insurance details

• Medical history, prescriptions, and treatment records

• Billing and payment information

• Emergency contact details

3. How We Collect Information
We collect personal information directly from you when:

• You book an appointment

• You complete patient registration forms

• You communicate with us via phone, email, or website

• You visit our practice for medical treatment

• We receive referrals from other healthcare providers

4. How We Use Your Information
Your personal information is used for:

• Providing quality medical care and treatment

• Processing billing and Medicare claims

• Communicating with you about appointments and healthcare services

• Complying with legal and regulatory obligations

• Conducting practice management, research, and quality improvement activities (de-identified data only)

5. Disclosure of Personal Information
We may disclose your personal information to:

• Other healthcare providers involved in your treatment

• Medicare, health insurers, and government agencies when required

• Third-party service providers assisting in medical or administrative functions

• Legal entities if required by law

6. Data Security
We take all reasonable steps to protect your personal information from unauthorised access, loss, misuse, or disclosure. We use secure storage systems, encrypted communications, and strict access controls.

7. Access and Corrections
You have the right to access your personal information and request corrections if it is inaccurate, outdated, or incomplete. To request access, please contact our practice.

8. Website and Online Privacy
When you visit our website, we may collect limited non-identifiable information, including:

• Cookies and analytics to improve website functionality

• Online appointment booking data

• Encrypted transmission of sensitive information

9. Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy policies of external sites and encourage you to review their policies before providing personal information.

10. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in legal requirements or practice operations. The latest version will always be available on our website.

11. Contact Us
For any questions regarding this Privacy Policy or to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us:

Westgate Medical Centre Heaths Road
Phone: (03) 8015 2700
Email: Heathsinfo@westgatemedical.com.au 
Address: Westgate Medical Centre 259 Heaths Road Werribee VIC 3030

Last Updated: 20 March 2025