Privacy Policy / Policy for Management of Personal Information

This document describes the Policy of North Queensland Psychology Services Pty Ltd for the Management of the Practice Clients Information.  The psychological service provided is bound by the legal requirements of the National Privacy Principals on the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector Act 2000.)

Client Information
Client files are held in a secure filing cabernet which is accessible only to the authorised employees.  Information is on each file includes personal information such as name, address, contact phone numbers, and other information which is 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 the psychologist.  The information is retained in order to document what happens during sessions, and enables the psychologist supplied of relevant and informed psychological service.

Request for access to client information
At any stage, clients may request to see information about them kept on file.  The psychologist may discuss the contents with them and / or give them a copy.  Please note, there will be an administration charge based on the fees set out by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) in Melbourne.  All requests by clients for access of information held about them should be lodged with the Principal, Michael Schauer.  These requests will be responded to within 14 days and an appointment will be made if necessary for clarification purposes.

Concerns
If you have a concern about the management of your personal information, please inform the Principal.  Upon request, you can obtain a copy of the National Privacy Principals, which describe your rights and how you information should be handled.  Ultimately, if you wish to lodge a formal complaint about the use of, or access to, you personal information, you may do so with the Office of the Federal Privacy Commissioner on 1300 363 992 or GPO Box 5218, Sydney NSW 1042.

Confidentiality Policy
All personal information gathered by the psychologist during the provision of the psychological service will remain confidential and secure except when:

1. It is subpoenaed by a court; or
2. Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at risk;
3. Your prior approval has been obtained to

Contact Details / Address
North Queensland Psychology Services Pty Ltd
11 Bundock Street, North Ward
TOWNSVILLE  QLD 4810, AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 (07) 47 212 502
Fax:        +61 (07) 47 212 516
Mobile:                0423 358 071
Email:    nqps1@netspace.net.au
Web:     www.nqpsychology.com