Privacy, Confidentiality, Information and Advocacy at YDHS
Privacy
YDHS and the Department of Health collect and disclose information via a secure electronic health information sharing system to allow clinicians to access critical patient health information at the point of care across the Victorian public health system. Access to information about any previous treatment you received will enable us to provide you with safe and effective care.
The Department of Health and YDHS handles your health information in the system in accordance with the Health Services Act 1988 (Vic), Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and Health Records Act 2001 (Vic). The Health Services Act 1988 (Vic) imposes penalties relating to unauthorised access, use or disclosure of information.
Information collected and shared includes your personal information such as your name, date of birth and address, and relevant health information, including treatment you received.
For more information, please see the CareSync Exchange Privacy Management Framework at Victorian Electronic Patient Health Information Sharing System Privacy Management Framework.
Information Privacy/Confidentiality – Document and Data Control
YDHS holds information that can clearly identify individuals in a variety of paper and electronic forms. We apply the Information Privacy Principles, contained in the Privacy Act 2000, as well as the Victorian Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014, to the management and security of this confidential information.
For more information about privacy you can refer to the Office of the Health Complaints Commissioner or please contact us on 1800 934 722.
Freedom of Information
Requests for documents in the possession of YDHS are directed to the Freedom of Information Officers and all requests are processed in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 1982.
A fee is levied for this service based on the time involved in retrieving and copying the requested documents. The most current fees are stated in our Freedom of Information Application Form.
> Download our Freedom of Information form (pdf)
YDHS’ nominated officers under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 are the Director Corporate Services and Manager People and Business.
Please call the Health Service on 1800 934 722 for details on how to make a Freedom of Information application.
Advocacy
Clients of YDHS are encouraged to have an advocate if they would like one or feel they need someone to represent their wishes or act on their behalf. An advocate can assist you in ensuring your rights are upheld and help you to make decisions. You are able to nominate an advocate at any time.
For more information about advocacy please speak to your health care professional or contact the YDHS Social Worker on 03 5182 0222.