Privacy policy

Introduction

At GWCIM, your privacy is of utmost importance to us. We are committed to protecting your personal and health information in compliance with all applicable privacy laws and regulations, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our clinic or use our services.

1. Information We Collect

We collect personal and health information necessary to provide you with medical care and to manage our practice. This may include, but is not limited to:

• Personal Information: Name, address, date of birth, phone number, email address, insurance information.
• Health Information: Medical history, treatment records, test results, current medications, allergies, and any other information pertinent to your care.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide you with medical care and treatment.
• Communicate with you regarding your health, appointments, and other services.
• Manage and improve our clinic operations.
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Process insurance claims and billing.

3. Disclosure of Your Information

After you signed GWCIM Medical Consent Forms and became GWCIM patient, we may disclose your information to:

• Healthcare Providers: To coordinate and manage your care, including sharing information with specialists, laboratories, and other healthcare professionals involved in your treatment. Personal information is released only after signing an additional medical information release form.
• Insurance Companies: To process claims and secure payment for services provided.
• Legal and Regulatory Authorities: When required by law, such as in response to a court order, subpoena, or other legal process.
• Business Associates: Who perform services on our behalf under strict confidentiality agreements.

4. Safeguarding Your Information

We implement appropriate physical, technical, and administrative measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. These measures include:

• Secure storage of electronic records.  We are paperless practice.
• Access controls to restrict who can access your information.
• Staff training on privacy and data protection policies.

5. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access Your Records: Request a copy of your medical records and other information we maintain about you.
• Request Corrections: Ask us to correct any inaccuracies or incomplete information in your records.
• Request Restrictions: Request limitations on how we use or disclose your information.
• Confidential Communications: Request that we communicate with you in a particular way or at a specific location.
• File a Complaint: If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

6. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or in the law. We will notify you of any significant changes by posting the updated policy in our clinic and on our website.