Privacy and Access

Our Commitment to You

At the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, we understand that your privacy is important to you. We are committed to respecting your personal privacy, supporting your right to access information, and maintaining information security in our custody and control.

The Cancer Agency Privacy Office is available to answer any privacy and access-related questions and concerns you may have. Our services include:

Ensuring the privacy of personal and personal health information is managed following The Health Information Protection Act (HIPA), The Local Authority Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (LA FOIP), and The Cancer Agency Act.
Investigating privacy breaches and complaints.
Managing and responding to access to information requests under LA FOIP.
Providing training and education to staff, physicians and volunteers on privacy, confidentiality and access to information.
Supporting access to patient records.

How is my information protected?

The Cancer Agency has policies and procedures in place to ensure appropriate measures are taken to safeguard confidential information. Staff, physicians and volunteers will only collect, use and disclose confidential information within the scope of their work duties, policies, or as required or allowed by law.

All employees sign confidentiality agreements and complete privacy training. Additionally, the Cancer Agency regularly audits its employees' activities in electronic medical record systems to ensure access is appropriate and authorized.

How is my information collected?

The Cancer Agency collects health information from patients for identification and care purposes. The Cancer Agency may obtain patient information from other health-care providers and health organizations to ensure we have all relevant information about your previous medical history and can appropriately direct your ongoing and future care.

The Cancer Agency maintains a cancer registry that supports the management and analysis of data for individuals diagnosed with cancer in the province. The Cancer Agency Act mandates collecting and using specific cancer information to support cancer research, outcome analysis and delivery of cancer control services.

The Cancer Agency also operates early-detection screening programs under The Cancer Agency Act. We receive demographic information on Saskatchewan residents eligible to participate in the programs who are then automatically enrolled to receive early detection screening services. Anyone who does not wish to participate in the screening programs can "opt-out" of these services by contacting the screening programs.

How is my information used and shared?

To correctly identify you.
To advise and remind you when tests are due, inform you of test results, provide treatment and testing, and ensure proper follow-up and future care when necessary.
To measure, evaluate, and monitor the services the Cancer Agency provides.
To coordinate your care with other health-care providers and health care services.
To provide you with information about our early detection programs.
To provide health and social services that will benefit your health and well-being.
For research.
As required or allowed by law.

How can I get copies of my health information or make changes to my personal information?

You have the right to request access to copies of your health information and can also request changes if you believe there has been an error or omission in your information. To view or obtain copies of your records, contact the Cancer Agency's Release of Information desk at ROI@saskcancer.ca. To request an amendment of your health information, please contact the Privacy Officer at privacy@saskcancer.ca.

Access to Information Requests (LA FOIP)

LA FOIP provides access to most records under the control of a public body (excluding personal health information) while still protecting the privacy rights of individuals. Before submitting a formal LA FOIP request, please contact the Cancer Agency's Privacy Office. Often, the information already exists, and the request can be filled without engaging in a formal process.

If a formal request is submitted, it must be made in writing (LA FOIP form below) to the Privacy Office.

There is a $20 processing fee to be submitted with all LA FOIP requests. Your request will be processed once the fee is received. The Privacy Office will work with you to clarify and process your request.

Who can I talk to if I have questions/concerns regarding privacy or access to information?

The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency Privacy Officer

200-4545 Parliament Avenue

Regina, SK S4W 0G3

Phone: 1-855-833-2143 (toll-free)

Email: Privacy@saskcancer.ca

If the Cancer Agency is unable to resolve your concern to your satisfaction, please contact:

Office of the Saskatchewan Information and Privacy Commissioner

503-1801 Hamilton Street Regina, SK S4P 4B4

Phone: 1-877-748-2298 (toll-free)

Email: intake@oipc.sk.ca

Visit: www.oipc.sk.ca