Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

At Dr. Carol Ng's Skin Care Clinic ("we," "us," or "our"), we are committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of your personal and health information. We understand that your health information is sensitive, and we treat it with the highest degree of care and security.

This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information in compliance with British Columbia's Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) and the E-Health (Personal Health Information Access and Protection of Privacy) Act.

By becoming a patient or using our services, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

We collect only the information necessary to provide you with safe and effective medical and aesthetic care.

2.1 Personal Information

• Name, address, and contact details (phone, email)
• Date of birth and gender
• Emergency contact information
• Personal Health Number (PHN) for MSP billing (if applicable)

2.2 Health Information

• Medical history, including allergies, medications, and past procedures
• Skin concerns and treatment goals
• Clinical notes, diagnosis, and treatment records
• Before and after photographs (for medical records and progress tracking)

2.3 Payment Information

• Credit card details and billing information
• Insurance coverage details (if applicable)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information for the following purposes:

• To Provide Care: To assess your skin, diagnose conditions, and perform treatments safely.
• Communication: To confirm appointments, send reminders, and follow up on your care.
• Billing: To process payments and submit claims to MSP or insurance providers.
• Safety: To prevent adverse reactions (e.g., checking for allergies before treatment).
• Quality Improvement: To monitor and improve our clinic's services and patient outcomes.
• Legal Compliance: To meet regulatory requirements of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC.

4. Disclosure of Your Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information. We only share your information in the following limited circumstances:

• Other Healthcare Providers: With your consent, we may share records with your family doctor or specialists for continuity of care.
• Third-Party Service Providers: We use trusted providers for:
  • Electronic Medical Records (EMR) management
  • Appointment scheduling (e.g., Mangomint)
  • Payment processing
  These providers are contractually bound to protect your privacy.
• Legal Requirements: If required by law, court order, or to prevent serious harm to you or others.
• Regulatory Bodies: As required by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC for audits or quality assurance.

5. Security of Your Information

We implement robust security measures to protect your data:

• Physical Security: Restricted access to clinic files and secure storage of paper records.
• Digital Security: Encrypted EMR systems, strong passwords, firewalls, and regular data backups.
• Staff Training: All staff sign confidentiality agreements and receive privacy training.
• Access Control: Information is accessible only to authorized personnel who need it to perform their duties.

6. Your Rights

Under BC privacy laws, you have specific rights regarding your information:

6.1 Right to Access

You have the right to review or obtain a copy of your medical record. Requests must be made in writing. A reasonable administrative fee may apply for copying and transfer.

6.2 Right to Correction

If you believe your information is inaccurate, you may request a correction. We will update the record or attach a statement of disagreement if we cannot verify the change.

6.3 Right to Withdraw Consent

You may withdraw consent for the use or disclosure of your information at any time, subject to legal or contractual restrictions. Note that this may limit our ability to provide certain treatments.

7. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your information, please contact our Privacy Officer: