About this resource
General practice has a responsibility to protect the privacy of patient health information and be compliant with relevant legislation.
This resource provides an overview of the legislative framework that regulates the way personal information is handled – the Privacy Act 1988, the 13 Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and other relevant health records legislation within the general practice setting.
The appropriate management of health information in general practice goes beyond just privacy considerations and this resource also provides best practice guidance on:
- patient consent
- patient rights
- management and security of medical records
- information used in medical research.
This resource can be used as a self-directed learning activity by general practitioners and other practice team members. It is anticipated the content will take approximately one hour to work through.
General Practitioners (GPs) can
self-record this activity for CPD purposes.
The content of this resource is intended as a general guide only. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recommends you seek appropriate legal or professional advice to support your practice meeting its privacy requirements.