Privacy:

The Centre is committed to the protection of the privacy rights of its clients, employees/consultants, Board, volunteers/students and donors as well as any other individuals with whom it has contact.

The Centre is accountable for all personal and health information in its possession which includes the collection of accurate information, limited to that which is necessary for the purposes specified and procedures in place to maximize the security of confidential information.

We collect personal information from clients (name, addresses, contact information, gender, gender identity and culture) and share that information as needed ONLY with client expressed written and informed consent. Clients are always consulted prior to any information sharing. Collecting and sharing information enhances our ability to provide the right service at the right time. Clients can withdraw consent for treatment and for exchange of information at any time.

We are required to maintain electronic clinical records of our contact with clients, the treatment plan and progress toward set goals. This information is shared with clients. All electronic files are locked, and password protected with multi factor authentication required. Any faxed client information is encrypted.

All staff, board members, volunteers and interns take an oath of confidentiality when they commence employment, board membership or placement and continues indefinitely.

Limits to Confidentiality:

Client personal health information is shared only with client consent unless our staff are concerned about client self-harm or safety and any time there is a disclosure of child abuse. Client personal health information may be shared without your consent under a court order. Client information can be disclosed under legislation to parents and caregivers when a child is under the age of 12.

Retention and Destruction of Personal Health Information

Client personal health information is retained after service ends in order that we are able to respond to request for client information beyond the period of service and for accreditation purposes. Client consent is required to share information during the accreditation process. Client file information is maintained according to legislation and Huron-Perth Centre policies. Electronic files are deleted and paper copies are shredded.

Client Access to Personal Health Information:

Clients have the right to access their personal health information maintained by the Huron-Perth Centre. Some exceptions may apply. In order to access personal health information, or request corrections to the information on file, clients are asked to contact the Huron-Perth Centre Privacy Officer. Requests are responded to within 30 days.

Privacy Officer: Dana Bozzato, CEO

519 273-3373 ext 2230

 

Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario

416 326-3333 or 1 800 387-0073