Recent amendments to the Privacy Act require pharmacies to be more vigilant with patient data. Even a brief 10-second phone call, confirming Mrs Jones' date of birth or prescription details, can lead to a breach of privacy laws. In this episode, Sarah outlines the key changes to the legislation, which can be summarised into three categories: increased awareness and enforcement, tighter rules, and heightened risks.
The changes to the Privacy Act represent significant challenges but also present an opportunity for pharmacies to bolster their privacy practices. Taking steps now can help prevent costly penalties and maintain your pharmacy’s reputation.
As a first step, it’s essential to review and update your privacy policy. Also consider whether you've updated your practices since the introduction of new technologies, such as e-scripts, SMS reminders and artificial intelligence. After all, an outdated policy is as good as having no policy at all!
Calm The Pharm is brought to you by your host, Sarah Stoddart. Sarah is the founder and director of Vitality Law Australia, a boutique law firm which provides small business owners and healthcare professionals across Australia with clear legal pathways and peace of mind. She is recognised as a leader in the healthcare industry and is one of only a few lawyers in Australia with specialist experience working with pharmacy businesses.
In 2021, Sarah was named the Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Australian Sole Practitioner of the Year. She was also named as a finalist in the AusMumpreneur Business Awards. In 2022, she was named as a finalist in the Women in Business Awards for The Hills and Districts Chamber of Commerce, the Australian Law Awards and again in the Women in Law Awards.
Sarah is the co-author of business book, “Courage and Confidence”. The book is a collection of inspirational stories combined with practical tools, tips and advice written by a small group of Australian women in business. She is also a non-executive director of MS Queensland.
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