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Social Media Policy for Patients

Affinity Family Medical – Effective Date: June 2026

1. Purpose of Our Social Media Presence

Affinity Family Medical may use social media (including platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and our website blog) to:

  • Share general health information and reliable health updates.
  • Announce practice news (e.g., new doctors, holiday opening hours, flu clinic dates).
  • Promote preventive health programs relevant to the Whitsunday community.
  • Direct patients to our official website and contact channels.

Our social media use complies with the RACGP Standards for general practices (5th edition) and all relevant advertising and privacy legislation.

2. Our Commitment to Your Privacy and Confidentiality

Your privacy and confidentiality are paramount. We strictly adhere to the Australian Privacy Principles and the Medical Board of Australia’s Code of Conduct.

  • No Personal Medical Advice: We will never provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment via social media. These platforms are public and not secure for private discussions. For all medical advice, please book an appointment or call the practice on 07 4804 5680
  • No Identifying Information: Our practice staff will never post any information, comments, or photos that could identify a patient. We maintain strict confidentiality at all times.
  • Official Channels Only: Please understand that social media is a public forum. Do not use our social media channels to communicate sensitive personal or health information.

3. Rules for Patient Interaction and Comments

We encourage respectful engagement but must maintain professional and safe boundaries on our social media pages.

4. Contacting Affinity Family Medical

Social media channels are checked periodically and are not monitored 24/7. Please use the following methods for urgent and clinical matters:

Channel
Purpose
Response Time/Availability
Phone: 07 4804 5680
All appointments, urgent queries, and medical questions.Immediate during opening hours.
Email: business@affinitymedical.com.auAdministrative inquiries only (e.g., general feedback, requesting forms).Within 2 business days (not for urgent matters).
Formal ComplaintsFormal complaints, feedback, or privacy concerns.
Contact the Practice Manager directly via phone or email for a prompt, confidential response.
Social MediaGeneral health information, non-urgent practice news.Intermittent monitoring. Do not expect a reply for urgent matters.

5. Review and Compliance

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains compliant with the latest professional guidelines (RACGP, AHPRA) and relevant privacy legislation.

By interacting with Affinity Family Medical’s social media channels, you agree to abide by the terms outlined in this policy.