Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for Smart Step Podiatry

Introduction

This privacy policy explains how our podiatry clinic collects, uses, stores, and shares your personal information, including health information. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

Your Consent

When you register as a patient, you consent to our podiatrists and staff accessing and using your personal information to provide you with high-quality healthcare. Only authorised staff members who need access to your information will use it. If we need to use your information for any other purpose, we will seek your additional consent.

Why We Collect, Use, Hold, and Share Your Information

We collect your personal information to provide podiatry and related healthcare services. The main reasons we collect and use your information include:

• Managing your health and treatment plans
• Processing payments and health fund claims
• Conducting practice audits and accreditation
• Supporting staff training and clinic operations

Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

• Name, date of birth, address, and contact details
• Medical history, medications, allergies, and relevant health information
• Medicare number and healthcare identifiers
• Information from other healthcare providers, where relevant

How We Collect Information

We collect information in several ways:

1. When you register or make an appointment.
2. During consultations and treatment.
3. Through communication channels such as email, phone, or social media.
4. From other healthcare providers or organisations when necessary (e.g., hospitals, specialists, or health funds).

Sharing Your Information

We may share your information:

• With other healthcare providers involved in your care
• With third-party service providers (e.g., IT support, accreditation bodies) who comply with privacy standards
• When required by law or to prevent serious threats to health or safety
• For mandatory disease notifications or legal obligations

We will not share your information outside Australia without your consent, except where permitted by law.

Marketing

We will not use your personal information for direct marketing without your express consent. You may opt out of marketing communications at any time.

Storage and Security

Your information is stored electronically in secure systems protected by passwords and network security measures. All staff members sign confidentiality agreements before commencing work.

Access and Correction

You have the right to access and correct your personal information. Requests must be made in writing using our medical record release form. We aim to respond within one week. Fees may apply for record retrieval. We regularly review and update your information to ensure accuracy.

Complaints

If you have a privacy concern, please submit it in writing to our clinic. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe, typically within 30 days. If you are not satisfied, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au or call 1300 363 992.

Website Privacy

Our website may collect visitor statistics and information provided through online forms. Cookies and analytics tools (such as Google Analytics) may be used to improve user experience. These tools do not identify individual users. You can disable cookies in your browser settings.

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with privacy legislation and clinic operations. Updates will be published on our website.

Last reviewed: April 2026