Privacy & your information
How we handle your personal health information at Westside Medical Associates.
Your medical record
The clinic is fully computerized and keeps your medical record in an electronic medical record system. Your record is used to provide and coordinate your care, and is handled in accordance with British Columbia's privacy legislation and the standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia.
AI note transcription
Our clinic uses artificial intelligence for clinic note transcription. The software listens during your visit and produces a draft clinical note, which your physician then reviews and edits before it is added to your chart.
- We ask for your consent before using it during your visit.
- You can decline. Your care will not be affected.
- We are happy to answer any questions you have about this approach — please ask your physician or our staff.
You can read more about the software we use at medulla.ca.
Telemedicine appointments
We do not record telemedicine video or telephone consultations. All consultation notes are documented and kept on your chart in exactly the same way as an in-person office visit.
When you book a telemedicine appointment, a link is sent to the email address you provide. Accepting that link indicates your consent to a confidential telemedicine consultation. Please do not click the link if you have questions or concerns about consent — call the clinic instead.
Online booking
Our online booking is provided by a third-party service. When you book, you enter your name, date of birth, BC personal health number and email address so that we can identify you and confirm your appointment.
Transferring records
If you are applying to become a patient, please do not transfer your medical records until you are asked to. Transferring your previous records, when required, is your responsibility and may be a prerequisite for a family physician to fully accept your care.
Questions or concerns
If you have a question about how your information is handled, contact the clinic at admin@wsmed.ca or call 250-768-6920.
This page describes our current practice in plain language. It is not a substitute for the formal privacy notice provided at the clinic — ask our reception staff if you would like a copy.