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Website Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

This Privacy Policy governs the processing of personal information collected by the medical practice of Dr J J Ongole (Family Physician), hereafter referred to as "the Practice", through our website and digital services. The Practice operates in accordance with the laws of South Africa, specifically the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), the National Health Act, and the ethical rules of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). We are committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and dignity of our patients.

 

2. Information We Collect

We collect personal information and Special Personal Information (sensitive clinical data) only when voluntarily provided by you, or where legally permitted:

  • Standard Personal Information: Full name, contact details (email, phone number), physical address, identity number, and medical aid details. 

  • Special Personal Information: Medical history, consultation bookings, chronic conditions, and diagnostic information submitted through online forms or patient portals. 

  • Technical Information: IP address, cookies, and website usage data collected for optimization purposes. 

 

3. Purpose of Processing

Your data will be used strictly for healthcare delivery and administrative functions, including:

  • Registering you as a patient and managing appointments.

  • Delivering clinical medical services, tracking consultations, and maintaining accurate health records.

  • Processing medical aid claims and collecting payments.

  • Complying with regulatory obligations under South African law.

 

4. Patient Confidentiality & Third-Party Disclosure

Patient medical records are handled with the highest level of absolute medical confidentiality. “The National Health Act (No. 61 of 2003) provides that this information must not be given to others unless the patient consents or the healthcare practitioner can justify the disclosure.”, as noted by the South African Dental Association (SADA). Information will only be shared with third parties under the following conditions: 

  • With your explicit, written informed consent (e.g., sharing reports with specialists).

  • When compelled by legislation or court order.

  • To your medical aid scheme, as required by law to process your clinical codes and claims.

 

5. Information Security (POPIA Section 19)

The Practice implements strict technical and organizational safeguards to ensure the integrity, safety, and confidentiality of electronic records. This includes Secure Socket Layer (SSL) website encryption, firewall tools, and restricted digital access protocols limited entirely to authorized staff members. 

 

6. Your Rights

Under POPIA, you have the right to request access to, correction of, or deletion of your personal information held by the Practice. You may object to the processing of your data or file a complaint directly with the Practice Information Officer. If an internal dispute is unresolved, you may approach the South African Information Regulator at enquiries@inforegulator.org.za. 

 

7. Contact Details

  • Practice Name: Dr J J Ongole (Family Medicine)

  • Physical Address: 34 Cuyler Street, Kariega, 6229

  • HPCSA Registration Number: 

  • Information Officer: Accounts@drjjongole.com

 

Website Terms and Conditions

 

1. Acceptable Use of the Website

By accessing the website of Dr J J Ongole (Family Physician), located at https://www.drjjongole.com/, you agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions. This website is provided purely to offer factual, evidence-based healthcare information, details about our medical practice, and appointment booking mechanisms. 

 

2. No Medical Advice / No Doctor-Patient Relationship

The informational content published on this website is for general educational awareness only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or clinical treatment regimens. Navigating this website or submitting an online form does not establish a formal doctor-patient relationship. Always schedule a direct personal consultation with a qualified medical professional for any physical or mental health concerns. 

 

3. Emergency Care Disclaimer

This website is not monitored 24/7 and cannot be used for medical emergencies. If you or a dependent are experiencing a sudden health emergency, acute trauma, or severe symptoms, do not submit an online form. Please immediately visit your nearest hospital emergency trauma unit or contact emergency services directly.

 

4. HPCSA Ethical Compliance Statement

In strict accordance with the HPCSA's ethical rules on advertising and professional conduct, this website contains strictly factual data. We explicitly declare that: 

  • This website does not utilize comparative marketing, promote specific outcomes, or host subjective patient testimonials.

  • All descriptions of health services or areas of medical interest are professional, non-sensational, and evidence-based.

  • No financial booking incentives or treatment guarantees are issued on this platform. 

 

5. Appointment Bookings and Financial Terms

Requesting an appointment through our online forms does not constitute a guaranteed booking until confirmed explicitly by our receptionist or billing staff. Patients remain personally liable for all fees incurred during physical or virtual consultations, regardless of medical aid coverage. It is the patient's responsibility to verify their medical aid benefits before their visit.

 

6. Limitation of Liability

While we implement robust electronic safeguards, the Practice is not responsible for any security vulnerabilities, network interruptions, or data errors that originate outside our immediate website infrastructure or control.

 

7. Governing Law

These terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any legal matters arising from website usage fall under the jurisdiction of South African courts.

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