Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA)

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Protecting Your Privacy

At Psychotherapy Counsellors, we prioritize the protection of your personal health information in line with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA). We are dedicated to ensuring that your data—whether related to your health, healthcare services, or personal identification—is treated with the highest level of confidentiality and care. Personal health information encompasses everything from your medical history and health card number to details about your healthcare providers and substitute decision-makers.

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Examples of Personal Health Information

Your personal health information can take various forms, including:

  • Health Records and History: Documentation of your medical background and current health conditions.
  • Case Management Records: Files related to the coordination and management of your healthcare services.
  • Service Delivery Assessments: Evaluations of the care and services you receive.
  • Health Services: Information about the healthcare services you have accessed.
  • Lab and Test Results: Outcomes from medical tests and laboratory assessments.
  • Healthcare Providers: Details about the professionals involved in your care.
  • Payments and Eligibility: Information regarding payments made for healthcare services and your eligibility for these services.
  • Body Donations: Data related to donations of bodily tissues or substances, including associated tests and examinations.
  • Health Card Number (OHIP): Your provincial health insurance number.

Why We Collect Your Personal Health Information

Collecting your personal health information is essential for delivering tailored, high-quality care. This information helps us accurately identify your records, customize services to meet your needs, comply with legal regulations, and continually enhance the quality of our offerings. In some cases, anonymized data may also be utilized for research purposes, always prioritizing confidentiality.

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How We Collect Personal Health Information

We obtain your personal health information directly from you or your authorized representatives, such as parents, legal guardians, or substitute decision-makers. Additionally, information may be sourced from external entities with your consent or as required by law. Our aim is to use this information to support your well-being and provide appropriate, personalized care.

Information We Collect Includes:

  • Personal Details: Your name, address, contact information, and date of birth.
  • Identification Numbers: Health card number (OHIP) and Social Insurance Number (if applicable).
  • Medical History: Information about your past and present medical conditions.
  • Support Services: Details related to health and social services you receive.

How We Use Personal Health Information

Your personal health information is utilized to provide high-quality care and support services, including:

  • Provision of Care: Ensuring you receive appropriate and coordinated healthcare services.
  • Program Planning and Delivery: Developing and improving health programs and services.
  • Referral and Counseling: Facilitating referrals and providing support counseling.
  • System Administration: Ensuring smooth operation of the healthcare system and compliance with regulations.
  • Research and Statistics: Using anonymized data for research to improve healthcare practices.

Protecting Your Personal Health Information

We implement robust measures to safeguard your personal health information from unauthorized access, including secure storage and disposal protocols. Our team participates in regular training, and any third-party service providers must adhere to strict privacy standards to ensure the security of your data.

When We Share Your Information

We share your personal health information only with your consent and only when necessary to ensure optimal care across services. We may also disclose information to public health programs or related services when required to manage risks or promote public health.

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Substitute Decision-Makers

In situations where you are unable to make health decisions, the following individuals may act on your behalf:

  • Parents or Guardians: For minors or individuals unable to make decisions.
  • Authorized Individuals: Those with written authorization to act on your behalf.
  • Estate Trustees: For managing the affairs of deceased individuals.
  • Legally Entitled Persons: Individuals authorized under PHIPA.

Parents’ Access to Children’s Health Information

Under PHIPA, parents generally have access to their children’s health information unless the child is 16 or older or if specific confidentiality provisions apply.

Accessing and Correcting Your Personal Health Information

To access or amend your personal health information, follow these steps:

  1. Submit a Written Request: Provide sufficient details to help locate your records.
  2. Direct Your Request: Send it to the appropriate department within Psychotherapy Counsellors.
  3. Response Time: We will respond within 30 days, with possible extensions as permitted under PHIPA.

Fees for Access Requests

  • Public Health, Long-Term Care, Adult Day Services: $30 administrative fee, plus $0.25 per page after the first 20 pages.
  • Paramedic Services: $75 administrative fee.
  • Fees may be waived in cases of financial hardship.

Health Information Custodians

If you have concerns or complaints about how your personal health information is managed, you can contact:

  • Public Health
  • Long-Term Care
  • Psychotherapy Counsellors Paramedic Services
  • Senior Services Development

You also have the right to file a complaint with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.

Educational Resources

For further information on your privacy rights and PHIPA, the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario offers various educational resources, including videos and real-life scenarios to help you understand the importance of safeguarding your personal health information.

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Staying Informed

By staying informed about your rights, you can take control of your personal health information and ensure it is handled with care and respect. We encourage you to engage with the resources available to empower yourself and enhance your understanding of privacy protection in healthcare.