Privacy Policy

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

On This Page:

Introduction

Rheumatology Associates, PC (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website, interact with our clinic, or use our services.
This policy applies to all website visitors, patients, referring providers, and individuals who interact with us digitally or by phone—including those who opt into receiving SMS/text messages

Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

Personal Information

  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Insurance information
  • Appointment details
  • Any information you provide through forms or inquiries

Protected Health Information (PHI)

If you become a patient, your PHI is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). PHI includes medical information, diagnoses, treatment details, and other health-related data.

Website & Technical Data

We may collect

  • IP address
  • Browser type and version
  • Device information
  • Pages visited and referring URLs
  • Cookies and tracking technologies

This information helps us maintain website security and improve user experience.

How We Use Your Information

We may use the information we collect to:

  • Schedule and manage appointments
  • Respond to inquiries
  • Provide medical care and treatment
  • Verify insurance eligibility
  • Process billing and payments
  • Send important updates, reminders, or health-related communications
  • Improve our website functionality and user experience
  • Comply with legal or regulatory requirements

We do not sell personal information or PHI.

How We Protect Your Information

We use industry-standard administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information and comply with HIPAA requirements. These measures include:

  • Encryption
  • Secure servers and networks
  • Access controls
  • Staff training
  • Regular security audits

Although we take every precaution, no method of transmission over the internet is completely secure.

Disclosure of Your Information

We may disclose information in the following situations:

For Treatment, Payment & Healthcare Operations (HIPAA-Compliant)

  • To referring providers
  • To pharmacies, labs, or other care partners
  • To insurance companies for prior authorization, coverage, or billing

With Your Authorization

We may share your information if you give written consent.

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information if required to:

  • Comply with a court order or subpoena
  • Report public health concerns
  • Respond to law enforcement requests

Business Operations

We may share limited data with trusted vendors (e.g., IT or billing support), who are required to sign Business Associate Agreements (BAAs).

We never disclose PHI for marketing purposes without your explicit written authorization.

Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Our website may use:

  • Cookies
  • Pixel tags
  • Analytics tools
  • Google Analytics or similar services

These help us understand website traffic and preferences. You can disable cookies in your browser settings.

SMS/Text Messaging Compliance

We offer optional SMS/text messaging services for appointment reminders, updates, and patient communication.
By opting into our SMS program, you agree to the following terms:

Opt-In Consent

You may opt in by:

  • Completing a form on our website
  • Checking a box during intake
  • Texting a keyword to a designated number
  • Providing verbal consent during scheduling

You must provide your own mobile number.
You are not required to consent to SMS messaging as a condition of receiving medical care.

Purpose of SMS Messages

We may send messages related to:

  • Appointment confirmations and reminders
  • Scheduling updates
  • Treatment instructions
  • Billing notifications
  • Clinic updates
  • Referral or registration communication

We will not send marketing or promotional SMS messages without separate express written consent.

Message Frequency

Message frequency varies based on your appointments and communication needs.

Opt Out

You may opt out at any time by replying:

STOP

After opting out, you will no longer receive SMS messages but may continue to receive calls or emails.

Help Information

For assistance, reply:
HELP

Carrier & Delivery Disclaimer

Message and data rates may apply.
Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

Privacy & Security

SMS communications may not always be fully encrypted.
We avoid sending sensitive medical details by text unless necessary and permitted.

Your Rights (HIPAA & Consumer Privacy)

You have the right to:

  • Access your medical records
  • Request amendments to your records
  • Receive an accounting of disclosures
  • Request restrictions on certain uses
  • Request confidential communication methods
  • Opt out of marketing or fundraising communications
  • File a complaint

To exercise your rights, contact our Privacy Officer at:

Janette Stevenson

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to external sites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of third-party websites.

Children’s Privacy

Our website is not intended for children under age 13.
We do not knowingly collect personal information from children without parental consent.

Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this policy at any time.
Revisions will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or your rights, please contact us:

Rheumatology Associates, PC

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