Privacy Policy
CIC Clinic Privacy Policy (Including SMS Communications)
Effective Date: January 1, 2024
1. Introduction
At CIC Clinic, we are committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information, particularly in relation to our SMS text messaging communications. It also outlines how we obtain your consent for SMS messages and how you can opt out, in compliance with applicable laws (including HIPAA for health information and telecom regulations for texting). By providing your information on our website or using our services, you agree to the practices described in this Policy.
2. Information Collection
We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us through our website or other direct interactions, including:
a). Contact Details:
– Your name, mobile phone number, and email address when you fill out forms (e.g., appointment requests or contact forms).
b). Other Information You Provide:
– Any additional details you send us (e.g., inquiries, health concerns).
c). Automatic Website Data
– Basic technical information (e.g., IP address, browser type, and cookies) to enhance your web experience.
We only collect contact details (and limited health-related information you voluntarily share) to provide services. We do not collect more data than necessary.
3. Purpose of SMS Communications
When you provide your phone number, we may use it to send text messages for:
a). Appointment Reminders:
– Automated reminders for upcoming visits.
b). Marketing & Health Tips:
– Occasional messages about new services, wellness tips, or special offers (only if you opt in).
c). Transactional Messages
– Confirmations or basic updates about your inquiries, scheduling, or service details.
We do not send sensitive personal health information (like detailed medical results) over SMS. Texts are limited to scheduling, reminders, or general marketing/updates that you’ve consented to receive.
4. Consent & Opt-Out
Consent
- By providing your mobile number on our website and checking the consent box, you explicitly agree to receive SMS communications from CIC Clinic.
- Consent is not a condition of purchase or treatment. We will still provide services even if you choose not to receive marketing texts.
Opt-Out
- Text STOP to any message to unsubscribe from future texts. You will receive a confirmation text that you have opted out.
- You can also contact us directly (by phone or email) to opt out manually.
- Once you opt out, we will no longer send you SMS messages, except for a final confirmation of your unsubscription.
Help
- Text HELP to any message for assistance or contact information.
- Standard message and data rates may apply.
5. Data Sharing and Disclosure
- No Third-Party Marketing: We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with outside advertisers or unrelated third parties.
- Service Providers: We may use secure third-party platforms (e.g., SMS delivery providers, secure hosting) strictly under confidentiality agreements.
- Legal Requirements: We only disclose your data if legally required (e.g., subpoena, court order, or government investigation), providing the minimum necessary data.
6. Security Measures
We follow industry-standard safeguards, in compliance with HIPAA and best practices:
- Encrypted Transmission (HTTPS): Secures data you send via our website.
- Secure Storage: We keep your personal data on secure servers with encryption and firewalls.
- Access Controls: Only trained staff with valid business reasons can access your personal data.
- Monitoring: We use security software to detect unauthorized activity; we’ll notify you if required by law.
- HIPAA Compliance: We adhere to all HIPAA requirements to protect any health-related information.
7. Data Retention
- We retain your information only as long as needed to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected (e.g., while you are an active patient), or as required by law.
- Once no longer needed, we securely delete or anonymize your data.
8. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- HIPAA: As a healthcare provider, we follow all HIPAA rules for health information privacy and security.
- TCPA & Carrier Requirements: We comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and mobile carrier policies, including the requirement (effective January, 2024) to register business SMS campaigns to prevent spam.
- Other Laws: We comply with all other applicable privacy laws, updating this policy as needed.
9. Your Privacy Choices and Contact Information
- Review & Update: You may contact us to correct or update the personal information we have on file.
- Opt-Out: You can opt out of SMS by replying STOP or contacting us directly.
- Questions or Concerns: Please contact us at (214) 666-6651 or email [email protected] for privacy-related questions or issues.
- Policy Access: This Privacy Policy is available on our website at all times; a copy can also be provided upon request.