Notice – Privacy Practices for Protected Health Information
Introduction
Welcome to Bowling Orthopaedics, where your privacy and the security of your health information are of the utmost importance to us. This Privacy Notice provides detailed information about how we collect, use, and protect your protected health information (PHI). We comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other applicable laws and regulations to ensure the confidentiality and safeguarding of your PHI.
Collection and Use of Protected Health Information
At Bowling Orthopaedics, we collect and use PHI to provide you with the best possible orthopaedic care. The information we gather may include your medical history, current condition, and any treatment received. This enables our team to make accurate diagnoses, develop appropriate treatment plans, and offer personalized care tailored to your specific needs.
How We Handle Your PHI
We take every precaution to ensure the security and privacy of your PHI. Your information is treated with the highest level of confidentiality and is only accessible to authorized individuals involved in your care. We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
Sharing Your PHI
At Bowling Orthopaedics, we understand the importance of maintaining the privacy of your PHI. We limit the disclosure of your information to the minimum necessary to carry out treatment, payment, and healthcare operations. This includes sharing information with other healthcare providers involved in your care, insurance companies, and necessary administrative personnel.
Your Rights regarding PHI
As an individual, you have certain rights when it comes to your PHI. These rights include:
- Right to Access: You have the right to access and obtain a copy of your PHI.
- Right to Amend: If you believe that your PHI is inaccurate or incomplete, you have the right to request amendments.
- Right to Restrict Use and Disclosure: You can request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures of your PHI.
- Right to Confidential Communications: You have the right to request that we communicate with you in a certain way or at a specific location to preserve your privacy.
- Right to Accounting of Disclosures: You can request a detailed account of disclosures made of your PHI.
Your Privacy Choices
At Bowling Orthopaedics, we respect your privacy choices. You have the right to:
- Opt-Out of Marketing Communications: You can choose to opt-out of receiving marketing materials, newsletters, or any non-essential communications from us.
- Withdraw Consent: If you have previously provided consent for the use or disclosure of your PHI, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time.
Notice of Breach
In the event of a breach of your unsecured PHI, we will notify you in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The notice will describe the breach, the information involved, steps taken to mitigate harm, and contact information for further assistance.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to exercise your privacy rights, please contact our Privacy Officer at Bowling Orthopaedics. We are committed to addressing any inquiries or complaints promptly and effectively.
Conclusion
Bowling Orthopaedics understands the importance of safeguarding your protected health information. Through our dedication to privacy practices, we aim to provide you with the highest level of care and respect for your privacy choices. Trust us with your orthopaedic needs, and we will ensure the confidentiality and security of your PHI every step of the way.
