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Last updated: April 2024
1. Introduction
This Privacy Policy explains how SO Dental collects, uses, stores, and protects your personal and health information.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
Your trust is important to us. We only collect information necessary to provide safe, high-quality dental care and to operate our services.
2. What Information We Collect
We may collect:
Personal Information
Name
Address
Date of birth
Contact details (phone, email)
Health fund or payment information
Emergency contact details
Health Information
Medical history
Dental history
Medications
Allergies and adverse reactions
Diagnostic images (e.g., X-rays)
Clinical notes and treatment records
Health information is considered sensitive information under Australian privacy law.
3. How We Collect Information
We collect information when you:
Complete patient forms
Book appointments
Speak with our staff
Receive treatment
Contact us by phone, email, SMS or online
Update your medical or medication history
We may also receive information from other healthcare providers where relevant to your care.
4. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
Provide dental care and treatment
Assess your health and treatment suitability
Communicate about appointments and care
Process payments and manage accounts
Maintain accurate health records
Improve the safety and quality of our services
Meet legal and regulatory obligations
We do not use your information for unrelated marketing without consent.
5. Legal Basis for Use
Your information is used because it is necessary to:
Provide healthcare services
Protect your vital interests
Comply with legal and professional obligations
6. Cookies & Website Tracking
If you use our website, we may collect basic technical information (such as browser type or pages visited) through cookies or similar tools to improve website performance. This data does not usually identify you directly.
7. Sharing Your Information
We may share relevant information with:
Other healthcare providers involved in your care
Specialists, laboratories or referral services
Health insurers (for claims)
Regulatory or legal bodies when required by law
We minimise the information shared and only disclose what is necessary.
We may use de-identified information for education or quality improvement purposes.
8. Data Storage & Security
We take reasonable steps to protect your information, including:
Secure electronic systems
Controlled access to records
Physical and digital safeguards
Despite these measures, no system is completely risk-free.
9. International Transfers
Your information is generally stored in Australia. If service providers outside Australia are used, we take steps to ensure privacy protections apply.
10. Your Rights
You have the right to:
Access your records
Request corrections
Ask questions about how your data is used
Requests should be made in writing. We may charge a reasonable administrative fee for copies.
11. Data Retention
We retain records as required by law and professional standards.
12. Children’s Privacy
For patients under 18, parents or guardians may be involved in providing consent and accessing information in accordance with legal requirements.
13. Contact Us
For privacy questions or requests:
SO Dental