HIPPA Policy
Your Health Information Privacy Rights
This notice explains how we may use and share your health information and how you can access that information. Protecting your privacy is a priority. Please read it carefully.
We are legally required to:
- Maintain the privacy of your health information.
- Provide this Notice of our legal duties and privacy practices.
- Inform you of any unauthorized access (breach) of your unsecured health information.
- Follow the practices outlined here unless you request, and we agree to alternate terms in writing.
1. How We May Use and Share Your Health Information
We may use or disclose your health information for the following purposes:
Treatment
To provide or coordinate your care with other healthcare providers, specialists, or facilities.
Payment
To bill and receive payment from your health plan or other responsible parties.
Healthcare Operations
For quality improvement, staff training, compliance programs, legal reviews, audits, or customer service.
Appointment Reminders & Communication
To remind you of appointments or follow-ups. We may leave messages or send texts/emails unless you tell us otherwise.
Family and Caregivers
If you’re unable to communicate or in emergencies, we may share relevant information with those involved in your care or payment.
Marketing (Limited Use)
We may offer services or products related to your treatment but will never sell your information or use it for marketing without your written permission.
When Required or Permitted by Law
Including:
- Reporting abuse, neglect, or domestic violence
- Public health and safety
- Health oversight agencies (e.g., audits or inspections)
- Legal proceedings and law enforcement
- Coroners, funeral directors, or for organ donation
- Workers’ compensation claims
- National security, military, or correctional institutions
2. Your Rights Regarding Your Health Information
You have the right to:
Request Restrictions
Limit how we use or share your information. We’re not required to agree except when you’ve paid fully out of pocket and request, we not share information with your insurer.
Confidential Communication
Ask us to communicate with you in a specific way or location (e.g., via email or phone only).
Access and Copies
See or get a copy of your health records in paper or electronic form. We may charge a reasonable fee.
Request an Amendment
Ask us to correct your records if you believe they’re incomplete or incorrect.
Get a List of Disclosures
Request a list of when and to whom we’ve shared your information, excluding routine uses for treatment, payment, and operations.
Receive a Copy of This Notice
In paper or electronic form, even if you agreed to receive it electronically before.
3. Your Choices
You can tell us what you want regarding certain information sharing:
- With family, friends, or others involved in your care
- In a disaster relief situation
- For fundraising purposes (we will always give you the option to opt out)
4. Changes to This Notice
We may update this Notice at any time. The latest version will always be available in our office and on our website. Changes apply to all information we have, including past records.
5. Questions or Complaints?
If you have questions or believe your privacy rights have been violated, contact:
Privacy Officer
Dr. Zachary Higgins, DC, MS, CCSP
Black Diamond Chiropractic and Sports Performance
919-228-8307
zach@blackdiamondchiro.com
You also have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Filing a complaint will not affect the care you receive.