There are many important ways that all staff are required to respect our customers privacy.  

All staff must understand when specific documents can be shared with customers, next of kin and other agencies.

Following Uniting AgeWell’s policies and procedures will ensure that documents are shared with customers and their next of kin at the correct time.

Some information should not be shared without seeking further advice or clarification and there may be legal ramifications if protocol is not adhered to.

Three important facts to remember

1. Uniting AgeWell owns all documentation which can only be released through the Privacy Officer

2. All documentation requests must go through the Privacy Officer using a Client Record Request form or by emailing: privacy@unitingagewell.org

3. Care Plans as a partnership in care document are authorised to be shared with the individual resident or client and their nominated family member involved in care.

The Importance of Privacy

Kerry Whitlock, who is Uniting AgeWell’s Privacy Officer, has been delivering presentations to staff on the importance of privacy requirements and what information is appropriate to share without seeking further advice or clarification.

Kerry’s powerpoint presentation called Importance of Privacy is accessible to all staff on BYB.  It details the do’s and don’ts pertaining to:

• emails

• client email protocol

• privacy emails on admission

• group emails

• private correspondence

• hazard documentation

• sharing information

• what to do with couples who are clients when using Procura

• requests by clients to see documents

• privacy requests

• new staff and phone usage

• electronic surveillance

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