Your Health Information

We are committed to protecting your medical information. This notice explains how your health information may be used, shared, and how you can access it.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your records: Request a copy (paper or electronic) of your medical records. We typically respond within 30 days and may charge a reasonable fee.
• Request corrections: Ask us to correct inaccurate or incomplete information. If we deny your request, we will explain why in writing within 60 days.
• Request confidential communication: Ask us to contact you in a specific way or at a specific location.
• Limit use or sharing: Request restrictions on how your information is used or shared. We may deny some requests, except when you pay out-of-pocket in full—in that case, we will honor your request not to share with your insurer unless required by law.
• Request a disclosure history: Receive a list of certain disclosures of your information for up to 6 years. One request per year is free.
• Receive a copy of this notice: Available anytime in paper form.
• Appoint a representative: An authorized person (e.g., legal guardian or power of attorney) can act on your behalf.
• File a complaint: If you believe your rights were violated, you may contact us or file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. You will not be retaliated against.

Your Choices

You can tell us how to share your information in certain situations, including:

• Sharing with family, friends, or others involved in your care
• Disaster relief situations
• Inclusion in a directory

If you are unable to communicate your preferences, we may share information if it is in your best interest or to prevent serious harm.

We do not share your information without written permission for:

• Marketing purposes
• Sale of your information

You may opt out of fundraising communications at any time.

How We Use and Share Information

We typically use or share your information to:

• Provide treatment (with other healthcare professionals)
• Operate our practice and improve care
• Bill and receive payment from insurance or other entities

Other Permitted Uses and Disclosures

We may share your information when required or permitted by law, including:

• Public health and safety (e.g., disease prevention, abuse reporting)
• Research purposes
• Compliance with legal requirements
• Organ and tissue donation
• Work with medical examiners or funeral directors
• Law enforcement and government requests
• Workers’ compensation claims
• Legal proceedings (court orders, subpoenas)

Our Responsibilities

We are required to:

• Maintain the privacy and security of your health information
• Notify you promptly of any data breach
• Follow the practices described in this notice
• Not use or share your information beyond what is described without your written permission

You may revoke your authorization at any time in writing.

Changes to This Notice

We may update this notice at any time. Updates will apply to all information we maintain and will be available in our office and on our website.