Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

At Peel Best Pharmacy, we are committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal health information (PHI). All regulated health professionals are legally and ethically obligated to protect the confidentiality of a patient's PHI. Our practices are in accordance with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) of Ontario.

2. Information We Collect

• Name, address, and contact information
• Health card number and insurance details
• Medical history and current medications
• Information from prescribing physicians

3. Consent and The Circle of Care

PHI cannot be collected, used, or disclosed without consent except in specified circumstances. The "Circle of Care" refers to the collection, use, or disclosure of PHI between health information custodians for providing health care to the same individual by assuming implied consent. This enables pharmacy professionals to exchange PHI with other healthcare professionals in a timely manner to facilitate and ensure continuity of care.

4. How We Use Your Information

We use your information strictly for:

• Dispensing medications safely and accurately
• Providing clinical services (e.g., MedsCheck, minor ailments prescribing)
• Communicating with other healthcare providers within the Circle of Care for seamless care
• Processing insurance claims (implied consent is permitted for determining coverage and reimbursement eligibility)

5. Disclosures Permitted Without Express Consent

Under PHIPA Part IV, certain disclosures are permitted without express consent, including to:

• Determine eligibility for health care coverage or benefits
• Compile or maintain a registry for improving health care provision (e.g., Narcotics Safety and Awareness Act)
• Disclosure to another College for health discipline administration or enforcement

6. Protection of Information

We employ strict physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect data against unauthorized access, disclosure, theft, or loss. All digital records are encrypted and stored securely.

7. Your Rights Under PHIPA

• Access your personal health records
• Request corrections
• Withdraw consent for collection or use (subject to legal or contractual restrictions)
• File a privacy complaint with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC) if information is improperly disclosed

8. Contact Us

For questions about our privacy practices, contact our Privacy Officer at the pharmacy or call (905) 712-0003.