Policy

BCHA respects individuals’ privacy rights and the protection of their personal information. This policy applies to all members and individuals providing personal information to BCHA, directly or indirectly, and adheres to PIPEDA’s provisions.

Procedures

Purposes for Collection and Use:
BCHA collects and uses personal information for the following purposes:

• Facilitating communication between members and maintaining membership records.
• Providing requested products and services.
• Issuing income tax receipts where applicable.
• Processing payments for requested products and services.
• Supporting program analysis, research, and management.
• Enabling access to member-exclusive websites.
• Meeting statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Managing admissions.
• Conducting professional practice investigations if required.
• Supporting research and planning activities.

Accountability:
BCHA is accountable for the personal information under its control.

Disclosure to Third Parties:
BCHA discloses personal information to third parties only to fulfill the purposes outlined above or as required by law. Reasonable efforts are made to ensure third parties uphold robust security protocols to protect transferred information.

Consent:
By registering as a member or using BCHA’s services, individuals consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of their personal information per this policy. Members may withdraw or refuse consent, subject to legal and contractual constraints and reasonable notice. However, withholding certain information may affect membership eligibility or services.

Use and Retention:
BCHA does not use or disclose personal information beyond its intended purposes without consent or legal obligation. Personal information is retained only as necessary for its purposes or as required by law.

Accuracy:
BCHA strives to ensure personal information is accurate, complete, and current. Members are encouraged to report inaccuracies for prompt correction.

Security Measures:
BCHA employs physical, administrative, and electronic safeguards to protect personal information against loss, misuse, unauthorized access, disclosure, or alteration. All staff adhere to privacy standards.

Access:
Members have the right to access their personal information held by BCHA. Written requests can be made to obtain information on the existence, use, and disclosure of their data. In certain exceptional cases, access may be restricted (e.g., if it compromises third-party privacy). If access is denied, BCHA will provide written reasons for the refusal.