PAIA MANUAL

This manual explains how to request access to information held by LF Mendes, Clinical Psychologist Inc., in accordance with the Promotion of Access to Information Act (Act No. 2 of 2000).

1. Contact Details

Information Officer: Leslie Faria Mendes

Entity: LF Mendes, Clinical Psychologist Inc.

Address: Johannesburg, South Africa

Email: lesliefariamendes@gmail.com

Phone: 084 097 0127

Website: www.lfmenendes.co.za

2. Introduction

This manual is prepared in terms of Section 51 of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) and provides a guide for accessing records held by LF Mendes, Clinical Psychologist Inc. The practice is committed to transparency and accountability, while maintaining patient confidentiality in line with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) ethical guidelines and the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

3. Categories of Records Held The following records are held by LF Mendes, Clinical Psychologist Inc.:

• Patient clinical records (confidential, accessible only by written request)

• Administrative and billing information

• Professional correspondence

• Policies and procedures relating to clinical practice and data protection

4. Access to Records Requests for access to information must be made in writing using Form 2 (Annexure A). The Information Officer will acknowledge receipt and may request additional details to locate the information requested. All requests will be processed in accordance with PAIA and POPIA requirements.

5. Grounds for Refusal of Access Access to records may be refused on the following grounds:

• Protection of personal information of third parties

• Confidentiality of medical or psychological records where disclosure could cause harm

• Commercially sensitive information

• Legal privilege

6. Remedies Available

If a request for information is refused, the requester may lodge an internal appeal or approach the Information Regulator of South Africa or the courts for review.

7. Fees

A prescribed fee may be charged for processing requests, in accordance with the PAIA fee structure. Fees must be paid before records are released.

8. Annexures

Annexure A – Form 2: Request for Access to Record

Annexure B – Form 3: Outcome of Request and Fees Payable

© 2025 LF Mendes, Clinical Psychologist Inc. | Johannesburg, South Africa

Last updated: October 2025