PAIA Manual for Dr. Anusha Priya Maharaj, The Lung Clinic
Prepared in accordance with Section 51 of the Promotion of Access to Information Act, No. 2 of 2000 (“PAIA”)

1. Introduction

This manual serves as the guide for accessing information held by Dr. Anusha Priya Maharaj at The Lung Clinic in compliance with the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). The purpose is to foster transparency and facilitate access to certain records upon request by any person.

2. Contact Details

  • Practice Name: Dr. Anusha Priya Maharaj, The Lung Clinic
  • Physical Address: Suite 05, 4th Floor, Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre, 11 Riverhorse Drive, Riverhorse Valley Business Estate, Durban, 4037
  • Postal Address: Suite 05, 4th Floor, Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre, 11 Riverhorse Drive, Riverhorse Valley Business Estate, Durban, 4037
  • Telephone Number: 031 581 2579
  • Email Address: info@lungclinic.co.za
  • Website: https://thelungclinic.co.za

3. The Act

PAIA provides a framework for access to information, promoting transparency and accountability. Section 51 of the Act mandates that private bodies, such as this practice, create a manual detailing the categories of records available and the process for requesting access to those records.

4. Guide on PAIA

As per Section 10 of PAIA, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has compiled a guide on exercising the right to access information. This guide is accessible through the SAHRC or Information Regulator.

5. Applicable Legislation

Records held by the practice may be subject to the following legislation:

  • Medical Schemes Act No. 131 of 1998
  • Health Professions Act No. 56 of 1974
  • National Health Act No. 61 of 2003
  • Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) No. 4 of 2013

6. Categories of Records Held by the Practice

The following categories of records may be requested, subject to PAIA and other applicable laws:

  • Patient Records: Confidential medical records, test results, and treatment plans.
  • Practice Management Records: Appointment schedules, billing records, and patient feedback.
  • Financial Records: Statements, invoices, and other financial documents related to the practice.
  • Legal Documents: Contracts, service agreements, and other legal documentation.

7. Requesting Access to Records

Requests for information must be submitted in the prescribed format to the Information Officer of the practice. The requester will be informed of any applicable fees.

  • Form of Request: Requests must be made in writing using the prescribed Form C, available on the Department of Justice or SAHRC websites.
  • Submission of Requests: Send completed forms to the email address provided in the contact details above.
  • Fees: A request fee may apply as per PAIA provisions.

8. Grounds for Refusal

Access to records may be denied according to PAIA under the following conditions:

  • Records contain confidential information relating to third parties.
  • The records are privileged due to legal proceedings.
  • Disclosure could harm ongoing research.
  • The information pertains to other individuals where disclosure could infringe their rights.

9. Remedies

If a request is denied, the requester may lodge an internal appeal or approach the courts for assistance, as outlined in PAIA.

10. Updates to This Manual

This PAIA Manual is reviewed regularly to reflect changes in law, practice operations, or other necessary updates.

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