PRIVATE MIDWIFERY PRACTICE

CLIENT SERVICE AGREEMENT – TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Introduction

These Terms and Conditions form part of the agreement between Sydney Midwifery (“the Practice”, “we”, “us”) and the client (“you”, “your”) for the provision of private midwifery services.

By engaging our services, booking appointments, or making payment, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to these Terms and Conditions.

PART 1 – CLIENT QUOTE / SERVICE SUMMARY

Client Name: ___________________________________

Date: ___________________________________

Services Requested:

• Antenatal Care

• Postnatal Care

• Education / Consultation

• Home Visits

• Lactation Support

• Other: _______________________

Estimated Fees: $_____________________

Payment Schedule:

This quote is valid for 30 days unless otherwise stated.

PART 2 – TERMS AND CONDITIONS

2. Scope of Services

The Practice provides private midwifery services including antenatal, postnatal, newborn, breastfeeding and educational support services within the scope of practice of an endorsed midwife under Australian law and professional standards.

Services provided do not replace emergency medical care or hospital services.

3. Client Responsibilities

You agree to:

• provide accurate and complete medical and personal information;

• disclose relevant health concerns;

• follow recommendations regarding escalation or emergency care;

• maintain respectful communication with staff;

• attend appointments as scheduled or provide notice of cancellation.

4. Emergencies

The Practice does not provide emergency medical services.

If you experience urgent symptoms including but not limited to:

• heavy bleeding,

• reduced fetal movements,

• severe pain,

• difficulty breathing,

• chest pain,

• seizures,

• concerns regarding your baby’s wellbeing,

you must contact emergency services (000) or attend your nearest hospital immediately.

5. Fees and Payments

Fees for services will be outlined in your quote, invoice, or service agreement.

Payment terms:

• Invoices are due within [7] days unless otherwise agreed.

• Payment may be required prior to appointments.

• Late payments may incur administration fees and interest where permitted by law.

• The client is responsible for any debt recovery costs incurred in recovering overdue amounts.

We reserve the right to suspend non-urgent services where accounts remain unpaid.

6. Medicare and Rebates

Where applicable, Medicare rebates may be available for eligible services with a valid referral.

The Practice does not guarantee eligibility for Medicare or private health insurance rebates and accepts no responsibility for rejected claims.

7. Cancellation Policy

We understand circumstances may change.

Where possible:

• 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellation or rescheduling of appointments.

• Missed appointments or late cancellations may incur a cancellation fee of up to [50–100]% of the scheduled appointment fee.

Exceptions may apply at the discretion of the Practice.

8. Home Visits

Clients receiving home visits agree to provide:

• a safe environment for staff;

• safe access to the property;

• notification of infectious illnesses within the household where possible.

The Practice reserves the right to cease or reschedule a home visit where staff safety is compromised.

9. Clinical Limitations and Referrals

The Practice may recommend referral, transfer of care, or medical review where clinical concerns arise outside the scope of private midwifery management.

We reserve the right to discontinue services where:

• ongoing care is clinically inappropriate;

• recommendations for escalation are declined;

• the therapeutic relationship breaks down;

• safety concerns arise.

10. Communication

Communication via phone, SMS, email, or social media is not monitored continuously and should not be used for emergencies.

Response times may vary outside business hours.

11. Privacy and Confidentiality

Your personal and health information will be collected, stored, and managed in accordance with applicable Australian privacy laws and professional obligations.

The Practice may use secure third-party software systems, including booking and clinical documentation platforms, for administration and care delivery.

12. Social Media and Testimonials

Clients must not publish false, misleading, defamatory, or confidential information regarding the Practice or staff.

The Practice will not share identifying clinical information or images without written consent.

13. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law:

• the Practice is not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential loss arising from services provided;

• the Practice is not responsible for delays or inability to provide services due to circumstances beyond reasonable control, including illness, emergencies, natural disasters, or hospital system issues.

Nothing in these Terms excludes rights that cannot legally be excluded under Australian Consumer Law.

14. Suspension or Termination of Services

The Practice may suspend or terminate services immediately where:

• invoices remain unpaid;

• abusive or unsafe behaviour occurs;

• there is non-compliance with clinical recommendations that places safety at risk;

• circumstances arise outside the Practice’s professional scope.

Outstanding fees remain payable following termination.

15. Intellectual Property

All educational materials, resources, forms, and content provided by the Practice remain the intellectual property of the Practice unless otherwise stated.

These materials may not be reproduced or distributed without written consent.

16. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia.

17. Acceptance

By signing below, you confirm that you:

• have read and understood these Terms and Conditions;

• have had the opportunity to ask questions;

• agree to engage services under these terms.

Client Signature: _______________________

Date: _______________________

Practitioner Signature: _______________________

Date: _______________________