top of page

Privacy Statement

Effective Date: July 7, 2025
Last Updated: July 29, 2025


Independent First Nations Alliance (IFNA) is committed to protecting the privacy of individuals and the confidentiality of personal health information (PHI) collected through our website and services. This Privacy Statement explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard personal health information in accordance with Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), 2004.
By accessing or using our website or services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Statement.


1. Information We Collect
IFNA may collect personal health information (PHI) through forms, portals, or secure communication tools on our website or during the provision of care. This may include:

  • Name, date of birth, and contact information

  • Health history, services received, and treatment plans

  • Health card numbers or substitute decision-maker details

We only collect PHI that is necessary for providing or supporting health care, administration, or health-related services.


2. Purposes for Collection
We collect PHI to:

  • Provide direct patient care

  • Coordinate and manage services

  • Meet legal, regulatory, and funding obligations

  • Conduct planning, research, and evaluation (with de-identified data when appropriate)

  • ​

3. Consent
We obtain express or implied consent before collecting, using, or disclosing your PHI, unless otherwise permitted or required by law.
You may withdraw or limit your consent at any time by contacting us. We will explain any potential impacts on service delivery.


4. Use and Disclosure of PHI
We may use or disclose your PHI to:

  • Other health care providers involved in your care

  • Health system funders (with identifying information removed where possible)

  • Meet legal obligations or respond to emergencies

  • Support research, teaching, quality improvement, and health system planning (under strict ethical standards)

We will never sell your information or use it for marketing without your express consent.


5. Protecting Your Information
We use physical, administrative, and technological safeguards to protect your information, including:

  • Password-protected systems and encryption

  • Locked storage and controlled office access

  • Access restricted to authorized personnel only

All IFNA staff, volunteers, and contractors are required to sign and comply with our confidentiality agreements.


6. Access and Correction
You have the right to access your personal health records and request corrections. In some cases, access may be restricted under PHIPA (e.g., risk of harm, legal privilege). Requests can be made in writing to our Privacy Officer.


7. Your Rights and Choices
You have the right to:

  • Know why we collect your information

  • Access your own records

  • Withdraw or withhold consent

  • Request restrictions on how your information is shared (including “lockbox” options)

  • File a complaint about our privacy practices

​

8. Complaints and Inquiries
If you have questions or concerns about our privacy practices, please contact our Privacy Officer:
David De La Fosse
Email: privacy@ifna.ca
Phone: (807) 698-9738


You may also contact the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario at:
www.ipc.on.ca
Phone: 1-800-387-0073
Address: 2 Bloor Street East, Suite 1400, Toronto, ON M4W 1A8
Changes to This Statement
We may update this Privacy Statement as necessary. The effective date at the top will reflect the most recent changes. Please review this page periodically to stay informed about how we protect your privacy

bottom of page