What is the study about?

This study is an important public health study we are conducting on behalf of a well-known Victorian health organization.  It will gather information on a variety of issues related to public health, such as people’s experiences with medical procedures and feelings about some medical services available to the community.

Who is conducting this study?

The study is being conducted by a well-known and well-respected Victorian health organization.  The reason we cannot specify the name of this organization is that knowing its name might influence your answers to some of the questions in the survey.  At the end of the survey, however, we will be happy to tell you who is conducting the study.

What are the main aims of the study?

The main aims of the study are to learn about Victorians’ awareness of and experiences with various medical issues, feelings about some medical services, and lifestyle issues related to health.

Who is being asked to participate in this study?

This survey will collect information from a random selection of Victorians aged 18 and over.

How did the interviewer get my telephone number?

Your number was randomly generated by a computer.  This way of choosing phone numbers means that each household in Victoria has a chance of being asked to participate in the study, whether or not their telephone number is listed in the White pages.

How long will the survey take to complete?

The survey will take approximately 15 minutes to complete, depending on your answers.

Am I required to participate in the study?

The survey is completely voluntary, but your participation is important for understanding more about important public health issues in Victoria.

Are my answers confidential?

Yes.  Any information you provide will be completely confidential and your own answers will not be identified as individual responses.  Your answers will be combined with all the other responses from people throughout Victoria to present a state-wide picture of important health issues.  No other agency or organisation will have access to your details. We are bound by the Provisions of the Commonwealth Privacy Act, as amended in December 2001.