PRIVACY POLICY
This policy outlines the ways in which Dr Sakshi Dhir handles the personal information of client in line with the legal requirement of the Australian Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). By use of this website and by providing information, you consent to the collection and use of information in line with this Privacy Policy.
Collection of personal information for the purpose of providing Psychological Services
As part of providing psychological services to you, Dr. Sakshi Dhir needs to collect and record personal information relevant to your situation, such as your name, contact information, medical history, and other pertinent details. This information may also include sensitive information, such as your personal background, your current and past medication information, your family’s personal history, your responses and results from psychological psychometric assessments, and information collected in sessions.
This collection of personal information is essential for conducting psychological assessments and treatments. While you are not obligated to provide all personal information, withholding certain details may limit the ability to provide you with the psychological service.
How I collect personal information
I collect personal information through a variety of means, including:
• The information you verbally share
• Written communication received from you via email, SMS or letter
• Information submitted by you in the intake form
• The guardian of those under 18 years of age
• Collateral information provided by a Next of Kin or other significant individual when you provide consent for this
• A referral from your GP or another treating practitioner or service
• The ongoing information shared in psychological assessment or treatment sessions
The storage of personal information
Your personal information is collected as part of your assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. It is securely stored and used solely to ensure your privacy. This information is retained to document what occurs during sessions and to enable Dr Sakshi Dhir to provide a relevant and informed psychological service. Information is stored in a number of forms, including both hard copies and digital versions (either on a secure server or offline). Hard copy information is stored in a locked cabinet.
Digital information is stored on the practice management software system, Halaxy, and electronic documents, which are only accessible through authorised persons. Information electronically stored on Halaxy is regulated by the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and you can access the full details on their website or via contacting them. Only authorised personnel are able to access the information stored on Halaxy.
Confidentiality and Its Limits
All personal information gathered by Dr Sakshi Dhir during the provision of psychological services will remain confidential, except when:
1. It is subpoenaed by a court; or
2. Failure to disclose the information would, in the reasonable belief of Dr. Sakshi Dhir, place you or another person at serious risk to life, health, or safety; or
3. Your prior approval has been obtained to:
a. Provide a written report to another professional or agency (e.g., GP, school, or lawyer); or
b. Discuss the material with another person (e.g., a parent, employer, or health provider); or
c. Disclose the information in another way; or
4. You would reasonably expect your personal information to be disclosed to another professional or agency (e.g., your GP) for a purpose directly related to the primary purpose for which your personal information was collected; or
5. Disclosure is otherwise required or authorized by law; or
6. It is necessary to consult with colleagues or in the course of supervision. Dr. Sakshi Dhir will make all reasonable attempts to conceal your identity and any associated parties involved to preserve your privacy in accordance with the APS Code of Ethics.
Data breach process
Reasonable steps will be followed to protect personal information from being accesses or misused. This includes ensuring physical safety of date sources, such as locks or security systems, disposing of information securely from time to time depending on the type on information it is and the legal obligations, and de-identification of information when it is no longer legally required.
If I suspect a data breach, I will make an assessment in accordance with the Notifiable Data Breach Scheme.
If I become aware of a security/data breach, I will promptly investigate, and you and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner will be notified, in accordance with the Privacy Act.
The electronic system, Halaxy, also has data breach plans in accordance with Notifiable Data Breach Scheme.
Access to client information
You are entitled to access your personal information kept on file at any stage, subject to exceptions in the relevant legislation. I may discuss with you the different possible forms of access. All requests for access to personal information and information shared will comply with the requirements of the Privacy Act.
Disposal of records
I am required to retain client records for a minimum of seven years since last client contact in compliance with the Health Record Acts and the APS Ethical Guidelines Code. I am also required to hold information of clients under the age of 18 till they are 25 years old.
Changes to this privacy policy
I may make changes to this privacy policy from time to time, and will update the website accordingly. Please contact me if you would like further information.
Concerns
You can contact Dr Sakshi Dhir directly if there are any concerns around the management of your personal information. Upon request, you can also obtain a copy of the Australian Privacy Principles, which describe your rights and how your personal information should be handled. Ultimately, if you wish to lodge a formal complaint about the use of, disclosure of, or access to, your personal information, you may do via the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/privacy-complaints/lodge-a-privacy-complaint-with-us).
DISCLAIMER
This website is not intended as a replacement for professional medical or psychological advise, and is for the provision of general information only. Dr Sakshi Dhir does not accept any liability for any loss or damage associated with the use of this site.
This service also does not provide crisis support and may not respond immediately to any emails sent or messages via the ‘book an appointment’ link. If you need immediate support or in the case of an emergency, please call 000, Lifeline on 13 11 14, or your local Psychiatric Triage Service number.
Any links to external websites, resources and information is not monitored or produced by this website, and therefore no responsibility is taken for content accessed outside of this website. Your use of this website constitutes your agreement to the above disclaimer.