What are my rights as a patient?

The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights describes the rights of patients and other people using the Australian health system. These rights are essential to make sure that, wherever and whenever care is provided, it is of high quality and is safe.

What can I expect from the Australian health system?

I have a right to health care.

I have a right to receive safe and high-quality care.

I have a right to be shown respect, dignity and consideration.

I have a right to be informed about services, treatment, options and costs in a clear and open way.

I have a right to be included in decisions and choices about my care.

I have a right to privacy and confidentiality of my personal information.

I have a right to comment on my care and to have my concerns addressed.

How does Barwon Health protect my privacy?

Barwon Health is required by law to handle your personal and health information in accordance with The Health Records Act 2001, as well as other relevant legislation relating to confidentiality and privacy.

We routinely share your information with and make it available to any health professional involved in your ongoing care or treatment, this is known as the primary purpose. This may include health professionals outside of Barwon Health such as your doctor.

Your information may also be used for secondary purposes that relate directly to the primary purpose of collection. For example quality improvement and planning activities, billing, funding requirements, mandatory reporting or where the information is required by law.

For all other purposes, Barwon Health will seek your consent before using or disclosing your information.

If you have registered with My Health Record will assume that you agree for information to be uploaded to it.

We respect your right to refuse information to be uploaded to My Health Record (e.g. discharge summary) and if you wish to withdraw your consent for this we will ask you to fill in a ‘Providing Health Information to eHealth Record’ form.

Feedback, Compliments & Complaints

Click here to leave a compliment or log a complaint with Barwon Health.

Page last updated: July 1, 2024