Notice of Privacy Practices

This notice describes how protected health information (PHI) may be used and disclosed and how you may access your information. Please review it carefully.

Protected Health Information (PHI)

Protected Health Information (PHI) is individually identifiable health information that is transmitted or maintained in any form or medium. PHI includes information that identifies an individual or for which there is a reasonable basis to believe it can be used to identify an individual. PHI may be oral, written, or electronic and is treated as confidential information.

Use and Disclosure of PHI

PHI may be used and disclosed for the following purposes:

Treatment
Payment
Healthcare operations

PHI may also be used or disclosed:

As authorized in writing by the patient or authorized representative
To the individual patient

All uses and disclosures of PHI are limited to those permitted under applicable laws and regulations.

Guidelines to Protect the Privacy of Health Information

The practice maintains safeguards to protect patient information, including:

Maintaining patient records in designated areas and protecting them from unauthorized access
Limiting access to authorized individuals involved in care, administration, or regulatory compliance
Avoiding discussion of patient information in public or unsecured areas
Conducting patient-related discussions in areas with limited access
Logging off computer systems to prevent unauthorized viewing
Properly storing and filing documents
Using designated or secure areas when faxing or copying patient information

Confidentiality and Access to Information

All patient information is considered confidential and is not disclosed except as permitted under this policy or applicable law.

Access to patient records is limited to:

Personnel directly providing care
Management staff
Quality assurance personnel
Representatives of accrediting or regulatory bodies

Release of information is permitted only when:

Proper written authorization is obtained from the patient or authorized representative, or
Disclosure is otherwise permitted or required by law

Patients or authorized representatives may request to review or obtain copies of records during regular business hours with valid written authorization.

Patient Privacy Rights

Patients have the right to:

Receive a privacy notice at the time of first service
Request restrictions or limitations on how their information is used or disclosed
Request alternative methods or locations for communication
Request access to inspect or obtain copies of their health information
Request an accounting of disclosures of their information

All requests must be submitted in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.

Compliance

All staff and providers with access to patient information are instructed in maintaining confidentiality and complying with privacy requirements. Unauthorized use or disclosure of PHI is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action and penalties in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.