PRIVACY & POPIA COMPLIANCE POLICY Trimco Health | drpiet.co.za Touws River Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd Section 18 POPIA Notification | Effective 2025 |
IMPORTANT NOTICE
This document applies to both trimcohealth.co.za and drpiet.co.za.
This Privacy Notification lets you know what happens to any Personal Information that you give to us, or any that we may collect from or about you. |
1. Privacy Notification
Protecting your personal information is important to Touwsriver Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd, trading as Trimco / Trimco Health (“the Organization”). We follow general principles in accordance with all applicable South African privacy laws, including the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
In terms of Section 18 of the POPIA Act, we are required to make our Data Subjects aware of certain information and of their rights. This Privacy Notification fulfils that obligation.
This Privacy Policy supplements other notices and privacy policies and is not intended to override them. It applies to Personal Information processed by or on behalf of the organization where we act as Responsible Party.
2. Collection of Personal Information
2.1 What Personal Information Do We Collect?
Personal information is data that can be used to identify you. This includes, but is not limited to, names, ages, identity numbers, registration numbers, addresses and other contact details, income and payment records, financial information and banking details. It does not include data where the identity has been removed (anonymous data).
We may collect, use, store and transfer different kinds of Personal Information about you, grouped as follows:
Category | Examples |
Identity Data | First name, last name, username, title, date of birth, gender |
Contact Data | Billing address, delivery address, email address, telephone numbers |
Financial Data | Banking details, credit bureau information, insurance details, outstanding loan balance, arrears information |
Transaction Data | Details about payments to and from you, and other details of services provided to you |
Medical Data | Health records, consultation notes, prescriptions (Trimco Health platform only) |
Marketing Data | Your preferences in receiving marketing from us and third parties, communication preferences |
2.2 Digital & Advertising Data
When you view an advertisement distributed through Trimco on a site, app or other digital media, we may collect information about your device and your interaction with the advertisement. This enables us to serve relevant advertisements and improve our services. Information we may collect includes:
- Device identifiers (alphanumeric strings unique to your device)
- Geo-location or precise location (only if you have granted permission)
- Location inferred from WiFi identifiers (in accordance with applicable law)
- Location inferred from IP address (city-level accuracy only, unless explicit permission is granted)
- Mobile carrier, network provider or ISP, network type (WiFi or cellular), IP address
- IDs of WiFi access points to which your device is connected
- Date and time of connection
- Advertisement information (details of the ad presented on your device)
2.3 How We Collect Your Information
- Directly from you when you complete an application form, whether electronically or on hard copy.
- Indirectly from you when you interact with us electronically. When browsing our websites (including mobile applications), we may collect your internet address and server logs. All sessions are encrypted and personal information is stored according to internationally accepted security practices.
- Directly from other sources, such as public databases, third parties, and other financial institutions.
- Indirectly through your interactions with third parties.
3. Our Contact Particulars
Organisation Name | Touws River Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd |
Trading As | Trimco | Trimco Health | drpiet.co.za |
Piet@trimco.co.za | |
Physical Address | 38 Park Street, Touwsriver, 6880 Unit 13a, Urban Growth Park, 15 Jan Van Riebeeck Drive, Paarl, 7646 |
Postal Address | P O Box 20, Touwsriver, 6880 |
Telephone | +27 73 779 8257 |
Websites | trimcohealth.co.za | drpiet.co.za |
4. Purpose for Which Information Is Being Collected
We will only use Personal Information within the framework of the law. Most commonly, we will use your personal information in the following circumstances:
- The processing is necessary to perform a contract with you or to take steps to enter into a contract at your request.
- The processing is necessary for us to comply with a relevant legal obligation.
- The processing is necessary for our legitimate interests (or those of a third party) and your interests and fundamental rights do not override those interests.
- You have consented to the processing.
- Where we need to protect your interests (or someone else’s interests).
- Where it is needed in the public interest or for official purposes.
We only collect Personal Information for specific, explicitly defined and lawful purposes in conducting our business. Please contact us if you need details about the specific legal grounds, we rely upon to process your Personal Information.
4.1 Direct Marketing
We may use your personal information to periodically send you direct marketing communications about products or services that we think may be of interest to you. This may be in the form of email, post, SMS or targeted online advertisements. We limit direct marketing to a reasonable and proportionate level.
Where opt-in consent is required, we will ask for your consent. You have the right to stop receiving direct marketing at any time by following the opt-out or unsubscribe links in our electronic communications, or by contacting us directly.
5. Is the Supply of Information Voluntary or Mandatory?
Supplying certain types of information is mandatory in terms of legislation and regulations. For example, in terms of the Consumer Protection Act, a supplier of goods or services must provide a written record of each transaction to the consumer.
This personal information is required to enter into or perform a contract with you (such as in anticipation of a services level agreement or to provide services at your request). Failure to provide the required information may result in our inability to provide you with the requested services or products.
6. Laws Authorising or Requiring Collection of Information
Where your Personal Information is collected in terms of a particular law, we will take steps to ensure that you are made aware of that. Applicable legislation includes:
- The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA)
- The National Health Act (NHA)
- The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECT)
- The Consumer Protection Act (CPA)
- The Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA)
7. Transfer of Information to a Third Country
If your Personal Information is transferred outside the Republic of South Africa to third-party service providers, we will take steps to ensure that your Personal Information receives the same level of protection as if it remained within the Republic of South Africa, in accordance with Section 72 of the POPIA Act.
8. Recipients of Your Information
Your Personal Information will be treated as prescribed by the 8 Conditions for the Lawful Processing of Personal Information in the POPIA Act. We may share your Personal Information with:
- Partners & Affiliated Companies – Any partner or affiliated company of the organization.
- Service Providers – Third-party contractors, technology and other service providers or agents who perform functions on our behalf. These providers may only use the information as needed to perform their functions and for no other purposes, subject to appropriate contractual restrictions and security measures.
- In Response to Legal Process – To comply with the law, a legal proceeding, court order, or other legal process, such as in response to a court order or subpoena.
- Payment Third Parties – Clearing houses, clearing systems, financial institutions and transaction beneficiaries used to facilitate payment transactions.
- Consented Third Parties – Third parties where you have a relationship with that third party and you have consented to us sharing information (e.g., social media sites or third-party application providers).
- Marketing Third Parties – Partners and other third parties whose products or services we think may interest you in the operation of your business activities, including financial services organizations, payment solutions providers, and software and services providers.
- To Protect Us and Others – Where necessary to investigate, prevent, or take action regarding illegal activities, suspected fraud, potential threats to safety, violations of this Privacy Notification, or as evidence in litigation.
- Government – Government bodies, regulators and any other third party necessary to meet our legal and regulatory obligations.
- Professional Advisors – Our professional advisors and auditors for the purpose of seeking professional advice or to meet our audit responsibilities.
9. Cookie Policy
This Cookie Policy explains how cookies and similar technologies are used on trimcohealth.co.za and drpiet.co.za.
9.1 What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device to help websites function properly, improve performance, and understand user interaction.
9.2 Types of Cookies Used
- Essential cookies – required for basic site functionality
- Functional cookies – remember your preferences
- Analytics cookies – help us understand site usage (non-identifying)
9.3 Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies may be set by third-party services (e.g., analytics providers, embedded content). We use the Complianz plugin to manage cookie consent on our websites.
9.4 Managing Cookies
You can manage or withdraw your consent at any time using the cookie settings banner on our websites. Cookies are managed in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
10. Acceptable Use Policy
By using our platforms, you agree that you will not:
- Use the platform for emergencies (see Emergency Use Disclaimer below)
- Provide false or misleading information
- Harass, abuse, or impersonate any other person
- Attempt unauthorized access to any part of our systems or third-party systems
Violation of these terms may result in the suspension or permanent termination of your access to our platforms.
11. Terms of Use
11.1 Acceptance
By accessing or using trimcohealth.co.za or drpiet.co.za, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use.
11.2 Intended Use
These websites provide informational content. Formal medical services are delivered exclusively via the Trimco Health platform.
11.3 User Responsibilities
You agree to:
- Provide accurate and complete information
- Use the platform lawfully and responsibly
- Not misuse content or services provided
11.4 Limitation of Liability
Use of these websites and platforms is at your own risk, subject to applicable South African law.
12. Indemnity Clause
By using our platforms, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless:
- Dr Piet Muller
- Touwsriver Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd t/a Trimco
- Associated healthcare providers
- Platform operators
from all claims, damages, losses, and expenses (including legal costs) arising out of or related to misuse of the platform, the provision of false or misleading information, or violation of these terms.
13. Disclaimers
13.1 General Disclaimer
All information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice.
13.2 Medical Disclaimer
Medical information provided on these platforms:
- Is not a diagnosis
- Does not establish a doctor-patient relationship
- Should not be relied upon without proper professional consultation
Formal medical services are provided exclusively via the Trimco Health platform under the supervision of registered healthcare professionals.
13.3 No Emergency Notice
EMERGENCY USE DISCLAIMER
This platform is NOT for medical emergencies.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, immediately contact: • Your local emergency services • Your nearest hospital emergency department
Do NOT use this platform for urgent or life-threatening conditions. |
14. Consent to Treatment
By using the Trimco Health platform, you acknowledge and consent to:
- Receiving telemedicine-based services
- The inherent limitations of remote consultations
- The use of your personal and medical information for care delivery
You may withdraw your consent at any time, subject to applicable legal and medical record-keeping requirements.
15. Data Retention Policy
Personal data is retained:
- Only for as long as is necessary for the purpose for which it was collected
- In accordance with applicable legal and medical record-keeping requirements
Retention periods may vary depending on the type of service provided. Once data is no longer required, it will be securely destroyed or anonymized in accordance with our record-keeping procedures.
16. Data Breach Notification
In the event of a data breach affecting your Personal Information:
- Affected users will be notified where required by law (including Section 22 of POPIA)
- We will notify the Information Regulator as required
- Reasonable steps will be taken to mitigate harm and prevent future breaches
17. Record Keeping Policy
All records are maintained:
- Securely and confidentially
- In compliance with applicable healthcare and legal standards
- In accordance with the POPIA Act and relevant health legislation
18. Third-Party Services Disclosure
We may use third-party services to support our operations, including:
- Hosting and cloud infrastructure providers
- Analytics and performance monitoring services
- Communication and email service providers
- Payment processing services
These providers process data on our behalf in accordance with applicable laws and are subject to appropriate contractual data protection obligations.
19. Professional Registration Disclosure
All healthcare providers operating on the Trimco Health platform are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Registration details are available on request or on the HPCSA website at www.hpcsa.co.za.
20. Your Rights as a Data Subject
As a Data Subject in terms of the POPIA Act, you have the following rights:
1 | Right to be Notified The right to be notified that personal information about you is being collected, and that your personal information has been accessed or acquired by an unauthorized person. |
2 | Right of Access The right to establish whether we hold personal information about you and to request access to your personal information. Use our form 03.8_PAIA Form C – Request for Access to Record of Private Body. |
3 | Right to Correction, Destruction or Deletion The right to request, where necessary, the correction, destruction or deletion of your personal information. Use our form 03.7_Request Correction Deletion Personal Information. |
4 | Right to Object The right to object on reasonable grounds to the processing of your personal information, including at any time for purposes of direct marketing. Use our form 03.6_Objection to the Processing of Personal Information. |
5 | Right with Regards to Automated Processing The right not to be subject, under certain circumstances, to a decision based solely on the automated processing of your personal information intended to provide a profile of you. |
6 | Right to Complain The right to submit a complaint to the Information Regulator regarding alleged interference with the protection of your personal information, and to institute civil proceedings regarding such interference. |
21. Complaints Process & Escalation Procedure
If you believe that this office has not replied to your access request or has not handled your Personal Information in a reasonable manner, please address your concerns first with our Information Officer. You may also choose to make a complaint to the Information Regulator.
Complaints may be submitted via email (see contact details below) and will be reviewed and addressed within a reasonable timeframe.
21.1 Information Officers
Role | Contact Details |
Information Officer | Dr Peter Newcombe Muller piet@trimco.co.za |
Deputy Information Officer | Pieter Smith pieters@trimco.co.za |
Physical Address | 38 Park Street, Touwsriver, 6880 Unit 13a, Urban Growth Park, 15 Jan Van Riebeeck Drive, Paarl, 7646 |
Postal Address | P O Box 20, Touwsriver, 6880 |
Telephone | +27 73 779 8257 |
21.2 Information Regulator
You can also contact the Information Regulator if you have complaints about this privacy notice or the information, we hold about you.
Information Regulator | South Africa |
Physical Address | JD House, 27 Stiemens Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001 |
Postal Address | P.O. Box 31533, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2017 |
Telephone | +27 (0) 10 023 5200 |
POPIA Complaints | POPIAComplaints@inforegulator.org.za |
PAIA Complaints | PAIAComplaints@inforegulator.org.za |
Website | Home |
22. POPI Act Summary
We process personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA). As a Data Subject you have the right to:
- Access your personal information
- Request correction or deletion of your personal information
- Object to the processing of your personal information
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator
- Not be subject to decisions based solely on automated processing
23. PAIA Manual
This manual is prepared in accordance with the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). It is available on request from our Information Officer.
The Information Officer can assist you with the request procedure and the necessary forms. Please contact us via the details provided in Section 21 of this document.
24. Refund & Cancellation Policy
Refunds and cancellations are subject to the type of service engaged and platform-specific terms. Please contact us directly for further details applicable to your specific engagement.
25. Accessibility Statement
We aim to ensure reasonable accessibility for all users of trimcohealth.co.za and drpiet.co.za. If you experience difficulty accessing any content on our platforms, please contact us so that we may assist you.
26. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this an emergency service?
No. These platforms are not for medical emergencies. In an emergency, contact your local emergency services or nearest hospital immediately.
Where are medical services provided?
Formal medical services are provided exclusively via the Trimco Health platform under the supervision of HPCSA-registered healthcare professionals.
Is my information secure?
Yes. We process and store your personal information in accordance with this Privacy Policy and the POPIA Act, using appropriate technical and organisational security measures.
How do I access or correct my information?
Please contact our Information Officer using the details in Section 21. You may use form 03.8_PAIA Form C to request access or form 03.7 to request correction or deletion.
How do I stop receiving direct marketing?
You may opt out at any time by following the unsubscribe link in any marketing communication we send you, or by contacting us directly.
27. User Guide
Step 1 – Register or Log In
Create an account or log in to access our platforms and services.
Step 2 – Access Services
You may be redirected to the Trimco Health platform for medical or health-related services.
Step 3 – Complete the Process
Complete the consultation, prescription or other service process securely through the platform.
Important Notes: • These platforms are NOT for emergencies. • You may be asked to log in again for privacy and security reasons. • Always ensure you are on the correct URL before entering personal information. |
28. About Us & Copyright
Touwsriver Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd (trading as Trimco and Trimco Health) is a South African company providing digital marketing, healthcare technology, and related services. Our platforms trimcohealth.co.za and drpiet.co.za are owned and operated by the organization.
All content on these websites is the intellectual property of Touwsriver Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd and/or Dr Piet Muller. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of any content is prohibited.
© 2025 Touwsriver Internet Marketing (Pty) Ltd t/a Trimco. All rights reserved.
This document was prepared in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA)
and the Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000 (PAIA).
