Privacy Policy – Osteopathy Nelson

Updated May 2026

At Osteopathy Nelson, we are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information with care, respect, and transparency. This policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020 and the Health Information Privacy Code 2020 (New Zealand).

Our Approach to Your Information

When you visit Osteopathy Nelson, we collect personal information to support your care and ensure we can provide a safe, effective, and professional service. This may include your contact details, relevant health history, appointment records, and any information needed for ACC or referral processes. Health information is considered sensitive, and we treat it with a high level of confidentiality.

We aim to collect information directly from you wherever possible, whether in person, through our online forms, or during communication with our team. If needed for your care, and with your consent, we may also receive information from other healthcare providers such as your GP, specialist, or ACC.

How We Use Your Information

Your information is used to support your treatment, maintain accurate clinical records, communicate with you about appointments, and meet our legal and professional responsibilities. It also helps us continue to improve the care we provide to our patients.

If you choose not to provide certain information, this may affect our ability to offer the most appropriate care.

Storage, Security, and Confidentiality

We take your privacy seriously and have systems in place to protect your information from loss, misuse, or unauthorised access. This includes secure electronic systems, restricted access for staff, and appropriate handling of any physical records.

Some of the systems we use to manage patient information are cloud-based (such as Cliniko), which may involve secure storage outside of New Zealand. In these cases, we take reasonable steps to ensure your information remains protected in line with New Zealand privacy standards.

We retain your information only for as long as required by legal and professional guidelines.

Sharing Your Information

Your personal information will only be shared when it is necessary for your care, when you have given consent, or when required by law. This may include communication with other healthcare providers or organisations such as ACC.

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information for marketing purposes.

Your Rights

You have the right to access the personal information we hold about you and to request corrections if needed. You may also withdraw consent for certain uses of your information, where applicable.

If you would like to access or update your information, we welcome you to contact us and will respond in a timely and respectful manner.

Privacy Breaches

In the unlikely event of a privacy breach that could cause serious harm, we will act promptly. This includes notifying the appropriate authorities and informing affected individuals, as required under New Zealand law.

Communication and Updates

We may contact you regarding your appointments or share relevant clinic updates. You can opt out of non-essential communication at any time.

This policy may be updated occasionally to reflect changes in legislation or our practices. The most current version will always be available on our website and through our patient forms.

Contact

If you have any questions or concerns about your privacy, please contact:

Liz Stroud
Osteopathy Nelson
📧 osteopathynelson@gmail.com