Privacy Policy
Thomas Family Dental is committed to protecting the privacy and security of our patients’ personal and health information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information in compliance with applicable laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information:
- Personal Information: Name, address, phone number, email address, and other contact details provided during registration or appointments.
- Health Information: Medical and dental history, treatment records, insurance details, and other information necessary for providing dental care.
- Payment Information: Billing details, insurance claims, or payment methods used for services.
- Website Usage Data: Information collected through our website, such as IP addresses, browser type, and cookies, to enhance your online experience.
How We Use Your Information
Your information is used to:
- Provide and manage dental care services, including appointments, treatments, and follow-ups.
- Process billing and insurance claims.
- Communicate with you regarding appointments, treatment plans, or promotional offers (with your consent).
- Improve our services and website functionality.
- Comply with legal and regulatory requirements, including HIPAA standards.
HIPAA Compliance
Thomas Family Dental adheres to the standards set forth by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). We implement physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect your Protected Health Information (PHI). This includes:
- Restricting access to PHI to authorized personnel only.
- Using secure systems for storing and transmitting health information.
- Training staff on HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality.
- Providing patients with access to their health records and the right to request amendments, as permitted by HIPAA.
Information Sharing
We do not sell or share your personal or health information with third parties except in the following cases:
- With Your Consent: For example, when sharing information with specialists or labs for treatment purposes.
- Service Providers: Trusted vendors who assist with billing, scheduling, or IT services, all of whom are bound by confidentiality agreements and HIPAA regulations.
- Legal Requirements: When required by law, such as for public health reporting or in response to a court order.
- Insurance Processing: To facilitate claims with your insurance provider.
Your Rights
Under HIPAA and applicable laws, you have the right to:
- Access and obtain a copy of your health records.
- Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information.
- Receive an accounting of disclosures of your PHI.
- Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures of your information.
- File a complaint with us or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.
Data Security
We employ industry-standard security measures, including encryption, secure servers, and restricted access protocols, to protect your information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. However, no system is completely infallible, and we strive to address any vulnerabilities promptly.
Website and Cookies
Our website may use cookies to enhance user experience and collect non-personally identifiable information, such as browsing patterns. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings. Any personal information provided through our website is handled in accordance with this Privacy Policy and HIPAA regulations.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on our website, and significant changes will be communicated to patients directly.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, your rights, or our practices, please contact us:
Thomas Family Dental
1920 Court Avenue
Chariton, IA 50049
Phone: (641) 217-8043
Email: [email protected]
For complaints or additional information about your HIPAA rights, you may also contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Effective Date: July 15, 2025