At freedoc, we take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our telehealth platform and services in compliance with Australian privacy laws.
Information We Collect
We collect information that you provide directly to us, including:
- Personal Information: Name, date of birth, email address, phone number, address, and Medicare details.
- Health Information: Medical history, symptoms, diagnoses, treatments, prescriptions, and consultation records.
- Payment Information: While our consultations are free, we may collect payment information for prescription deliveries or other optional services.
- Account Information: Login credentials, preferences, and consultation history.
We also collect information automatically when you use our platform:
- Usage Data: How you interact with our platform, including pages visited and features used.
- Device Information: IP address, browser type, operating system, and device identifiers.
- Cookies and Similar Technologies: We use cookies to enhance your experience and collect information about how you use our platform.
How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide, maintain, and improve our telehealth services
- Connect you with AHPRA-registered healthcare providers
- Process and fulfill prescription requests and medical certificates
- Communicate with you about your care and our services
- Maintain accurate health records as required by Australian healthcare standards
- Monitor and analyze usage patterns to improve service quality
- Protect against fraud and ensure platform security
- Comply with Australian healthcare regulations, AHPRA requirements, and legal obligations
Disclosure of Your Information
We may share your information with:
- Healthcare Providers: AHPRA-registered doctors and healthcare professionals who provide services through our platform, in accordance with their professional obligations.
- Service Providers: Third parties that perform services on our behalf, such as secure hosting, data analysis, and customer service, all bound by confidentiality agreements.
- Pharmacies: TGA-approved pharmacies when you request prescriptions that need to be filled.
- Legal Requirements: When required by Australian law, such as in response to a court order, subpoena, or to comply with mandatory reporting requirements.
- Emergency Situations: To protect your vital interests or those of another person in emergency situations.
Cross-Border Data Transfers
In accordance with Australian Privacy Principle 8, we ensure that any overseas recipients of your personal information do not breach the Australian Privacy Principles. We will only transfer your data overseas with your explicit consent or where we have taken reasonable steps to ensure the recipient will handle your information in accordance with Australian privacy laws.
Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction, in compliance with Australian Privacy Principles. Our security measures include encryption, secure data storage, access controls, and regular security assessments. However, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
Your Rights and Choices
Under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and Australian Privacy Principles, you have the right to:
- Access and update your personal information through your account settings
- Request a copy of the personal information we hold about you
- Ask us to correct inaccurate or incomplete personal information
- Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal and professional obligations)
- Opt out of marketing communications
- Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent
- Make a complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) if you believe we have breached your privacy
Health Records
In accordance with AHPRA guidelines and Australian healthcare standards, we maintain clear and accurate health records. These records are kept for the minimum period required by law and professional standards, typically 7 years for adults and until age 25 for patients under 18 at the time of treatment.
Children's Privacy
Our services are not intended for children under 16 years of age without parental consent. For patients under 18, we require appropriate consent from a parent or guardian. We comply with additional protections for children's health information as required by Australian law.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, regulation, or our business practices. The updated version will be indicated by an updated "Last Updated" date. We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us at:
privacy@freedoc.com.au
or
freedoc
Level 10, 123 Pitt Street
Sydney, NSW 2000
Australia
To make a privacy complaint, you can also contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC):
Phone: 1300 363 992
Website: www.oaic.gov.au