Introduction
Statewide Dermatology LLC ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal health information. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or receive medical services from our practice.
HIPAA Compliance
As a healthcare provider, we comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its implementing regulations. We have established policies and procedures to protect your Protected Health Information (PHI) and maintain the confidentiality of your medical records.
Notice of Privacy Practices
You have the right to receive a detailed Notice of Privacy Practices that explains how we may use and disclose your PHI. This notice is provided to you at your first visit and is available upon request at any time.
Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information:
Personal and Medical Information
- Name, address, phone number, and email address
- Date of birth and insurance information
- Medical history, symptoms, and diagnoses
- Treatment plans and prescription information
- Laboratory and diagnostic test results
- Photographs for medical documentation purposes
Website Usage Information
- IP address and browser type
- Pages visited and time spent on our website
- Referring website and search terms used
How We Use Your Information
We use your information for the following purposes:
Treatment, Payment, and Healthcare Operations
- Treatment: To provide, coordinate, and manage your dermatological care
- Payment: To bill you or your insurance company for services rendered
- Healthcare Operations: To improve our services, conduct quality assessments, and train our staff
Appointment Reminders and Communications
We may contact you via phone, email, or text message to:
- Confirm or remind you of upcoming appointments
- Provide test results or follow-up care instructions
- Inform you of practice updates or changes
How We Share Your Information
We may share your information in the following circumstances:
All the above categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
With Your Authorization
We will obtain your written authorization before using or disclosing your PHI for purposes other than treatment, payment, or healthcare operations, unless otherwise permitted by law.
Required or Permitted by Law
- Public health reporting (e.g., communicable diseases)
- Legal proceedings and law enforcement requests
- Workers' compensation claims
- Medical emergencies to protect your health and safety
Business Associates
We may share your information with third-party service providers (e.g., billing companies, laboratory services) who assist us in operating our practice. These business associates are required to protect your information in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
Your Privacy Rights
You have the following rights regarding your PHI:
- Right to Access: You may request to inspect and obtain copies of your medical records
- Right to Amend: You may request corrections to your medical records if you believe they are inaccurate or incomplete
- Right to an Accounting: You may request a list of certain disclosures we have made of your PHI
- Right to Request Restrictions: You may request limitations on how we use or disclose your PHI
- Right to Confidential Communications: You may request that we communicate with you in a specific manner or at a specific location
- Right to a Paper Copy: You may request a paper copy of this Privacy Policy at any time
Data Security
We implement appropriate physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. These measures include:
- Secure electronic medical records systems with encryption
- Restricted access to PHI on a need-to-know basis
- Regular staff training on privacy and security practices
- Secure disposal of paper records and electronic media
Website and Online Security
Our website uses industry-standard security measures to protect information transmitted over the internet. However, no method of transmission is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. Please do not submit sensitive medical information through unsecured email or website contact forms.
Children's Privacy
We provide dermatological services to patients of all ages, including minors. We comply with all applicable laws regarding the privacy of minors' health information. Parents and legal guardians have the right to access their minor children's medical records, subject to applicable state laws.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time. Any changes will be posted on our website with an updated "Last Updated" date. We will notify you of material changes as required by law.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, wish to exercise your privacy rights, or believe your privacy has been violated, please contact us:
Statewide Dermatology LLC
Privacy Officer
Email: privacy@statewide-dermatology.com
You also have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights if you believe your privacy rights have been violated. Filing a complaint will not affect your care or treatment at our practice.