Protecting Your Privacy

Veterans Affairs Canada has always taken very strict measures to make sure that all the information you share with us about yourself and your health remains private and secure. On January 1, 2004 the Government of Canada put in place new legislation to better protect the information you share with companies or individuals in the private sector (we call them health providers) who are paid to provide you with health services or benefits. This legislation is called the Personal Information Protection Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Under this legislation, the health care provider, such as a doctor, may feel it's important to tell you what information is being collected, why they are collecting it, and how it will be used, shared and protected. In some cases, the health provider also may ask you to sign a form that says you understand your privacy rights. You can learn more about this new Act by visiting the Industry Canada Web site at www.privacyforbusiness.ic.gc.ca.