Women and Newborn Health Service
Services A — Z
King Edward Memorial Hospital
SARC Confidentiality
SARC provides a confidential service to clients.
As a client you have to right to be:- interviewed in a confidential setting
- examined in a private clinical area
- assured that processes are in place to protect the confidentiality of your clinical records
Information management
- All of your clinical records are managed in accordance with the legislated requirements for the management of confidential records
- Any information about your assessment and/or any survey are securely stored
- Information systems holding your personal information can only be accessed by authorised staff involved in your care
Confidentiality Exceptions
In some circumstances there are legal requirements that require SARC to disclose information to appropriate authorities. These include:
- Subpoenas and court orders requiring the release of information
- Child abuse including sexual abuse to a child less than 18 years of age
- Mental health issues that indicate a risk to the safety of others
All requests for access to confidential patient information are carefully examined and where possible objections to the release of information will be made. Each case is assessed on its merits.
You will be advised if your clinical records are requested and SARC will ensure you are involved during all stages of this process.
If you would like further information on confidentiality issues please refer to policy w013, w042, w064 and w151 in the Womens and Newborns Health Service Policy Manual or contact the Mediation and Legal Support Services on (08) 9340 1312.
