What is HIPAA?

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act) is a government mandate that describes how health information about you may be used and disclosed, and how you can get access to this information.

You will receive a comprehensive brochure containing information about HIPAA during your first visit to our office, however you may also want to read the information below, which gives you a brief outline of HIPAA guidelines. 

HOW YOUR HEALTH INFORMATION MAY BE USED

• To provide treatment.
• To obtain payment.
• To conduct health care operations.
• In patient reminders (of scheduled appointments, for instance).
• In cases where we suspect a patient is a victim of abuse, neglect or domestic violence.
• To complete an investigation related to public health or national security.
• To a law enforcement officical for certain law enforcement purposes.
• To those you tell us will be helping you with your home hygiene treatment, medications or payment.

Other than is stated above, we will not disclose your health information without your written authorization.

YOUR RIGHTS AS A PATIENT

You have the right to:

• Request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures.
• Request that we communicate with you in a certain way, through mailed communications that are sealed, for instance.
• Read, review and copy your health information.
• As us to update or modify your records if you believe they are incorrect.
• Ask us for a description of how and where your health information was used by our office for any reason other than treatment, payment or health operations.
• Obtain a copy of a Notice of Privacy Practices directly from our office at any time.
• Express complaints to us or to the Secretary of Health and Human Services if you believe our privacy rights have been compromised.