Our Commitment
Bend Orthopaedics is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of your personal and health information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), the My Health Records Act 2012, and relevant Queensland privacy laws. We manage your information responsibly and securely, using it only for purposes directly related to your care and practice operations.

Patients We See
Bend Orthopaedics provides care to patients aged 16 years and over only. We do not see children under the age of 16.

Information We Collect
We collect personal details (name, date of birth, address, contact details, Medicare number, next of kin), health information (medical history, medications, allergies, test results, referrals, treatment plans), and administrative information (appointment records, billing, correspondence). Health information is considered sensitive under the Privacy Act and receives additional protections.

How We Collect Information
Information is collected directly from you during consultations, by phone, email, or secure online forms. We may also collect information from referring doctors, hospitals, allied health providers, pathology and imaging services, or My Health Record (where authorised).

Why We Collect, Hold, Use and Disclose Information
We use your information to provide clinical care, communicate with other providers, manage appointments and billing, meet legal and regulatory obligations, and perform quality improvement (de-identified where possible). We will not use or disclose your information for other purposes without your consent, unless required or permitted by law.

Data Storage and Security
All personal and health information is securely stored within Australia. We do not store any data offshore. Security measures include password-protected electronic records, restricted access, staff confidentiality training, and secure destruction of obsolete files.

Access and Correction
You may request access to or correction of your personal or health information by emailing practicmanager@cameroncooke.com.au. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe and may charge a small administrative fee for copies of records.

Data Breach and Notification
In the event of a data breach likely to cause serious harm, Bend Orthopaedics will comply with the Notifiable Data Breaches Scheme and notify affected individuals and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

Complaints and Feedback
If you have a privacy concern or complaint, please contact the Practice Manager at practicanager@cameroncooke.com.au. We will review and respond promptly. If unsatisfied, you may escalate to the OAIC at www.oaic.gov.au or phone 1300 363 992.