MGB complies with the Personal Health Information Protection Act and is committed to the following Ten Principles of Privacy:

1)  Accountability - Lucie Nichols RM and Barb Bryja RM are the two privacy officers or contacts for MGB. We are responsible for reviewing and communicating privacy policy for MGB, as well as facilitating any complaints relating to the use of personal information.

2)  Identifying Purpose - We collect personal information from our clients in order to provide clients with the best possible care.

3)  Consent - There are circumstances where consent may be given verbally, implied, or written. We will communicate with clients regarding circumstances that may arise in which personal information may be shared or received from other individuals.

4)  Limiting Collection - MGB uses fair and lawful means of collecting personal information. We are committed to limiting collection of information to that which is necessary in the provision of care.

5)  Limiting Use, Disclosure and Retention - MGB has a defined purpose in using personal client information. It is not used by third parties, such as for marketing.

6)  Clients have the right to make corrections to their records if they feel an error exists except in certain circumstances when after evaluation it is deemed unfit to change a record.

7)  Safeguards - Protecting personal information is a priority to MGB. We ensure that personal health information is treated with respect and is protected against theft, loss, unauthorized use or disclosure.

8)  Open Communication - MGB complies with laws that require clients are informed if there has been a breach in the protection of personal information of clients.

9)  Providing Individual Access  - Clients may access their personal information that is collected by MGB. It is accessible at any time as requested and midwives encourage this access to records. Only under circumstances that may contribute to harm or due to legal process may this be limited.

10)  Providing Recourse - We respect and respond to any complaints regarding the use of personal information promptly through an internal complaint system. If this process does not meet with the expressed needs of a client, further investigation is available through the College of Midwives of Ontario or the Federal Information and Privacy Commissioner. The intention of this process is to acknowledge, investigate and provide decisions in dealing with complaints.

We are respectful and protective of personal information received with the purpose of providing optimal midwifery care.