Privacy at Valley Skin Checks

Your privacy matters to us.

We follow the Privacy Act 2020 and Health Information Privacy Code 2020 to make sure your personal and health information is managed safely and respectfully.


What we collect

When you receive services from Valley Skin Checks, we collect:

  • Your contact details (name, date of birth, address, phone, email)

  • Your relevant health information (skin history, medications, allergies, screening results)

  • Clinical photos of your skin or lesions (current and previous)

  • Appointment and billing details

We will collect your health information from you directly where possible, but sometimes we may also access and collect it from other health providers involved in your care (including online patient information management systems).


Where your information is stored

We securely store your information in:

  • DermEngine – an online clinical platform for managing skin images and reports

  • Indici – for your clinical notes, appointments, and patient records

Both systems meet New Zealand privacy and security standards.


How we protect it

We keep your information safe through:

  • Password-protected systems and secure logins

  • Encrypted data storage and secure networks

  • Limited access – only authorised staff can view your records

  • Regular privacy and security reviews

Health records are securely retained for up to 10 years (as required by New Zealand law) before being safely destroyed or anonymised.


Why we collect it

We collect and use your health information to:

  • Provide accurate skin cancer screening and care

  • Communicate with you and your GP and any other relevant health provider (with consent)

  • Manage bookings, payments, and follow-ups

  • Meet legal, clinical, and safety requirements

We never sell or share your information for marketing purposes.


Your rights

You have the right to:

  • Access the health information we hold about you

  • Ask us to correct any health information that you consider is inaccurate

  • Withdraw your consent for future use of your health information (where possible)

To make a request, just email us — we’ll respond as soon as we can.


Sharing your information

We may share your health information with:

  • Your GP or other relevant healthcare providers involved in your care (with your consent)

  • Insurers or funders (for payment or claims)

  • When legally required or if there’s a serious risk to health or safety

 
 

Questions or complaints

If you have any privacy concerns, contact our Privacy Officer:

Privacy Officer – Valley Skin Checks

If you’re not satisfied with our response, or have other privacy concerns, you can contact the Office of the Privacy Commissioner at www.privacy.org.nz

 
Clinical Nurse Specialist, Sinead Dean, using a DermEngine device on a patient to check for skin cancer at Valley Skin Checks, located in Wellington's Hutt Valley.

I understand that having a skin check may feel a little daunting — but from the moment you step into the consultation, my goal is to help you feel completely at ease.

By the end of your appointment, It's my hope that you’ll feel proud of yourself for taking such an important step toward protecting your health and wellbeing.

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