Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

What is HIPAA?

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HIPAA is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of your medical information and ensure that all healthcare providers, including mental health professionals, handle patient data securely and responsibly.

How We Protect Your Health Information

We take the following measures to ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations:

✔ Confidentiality & Secure Communication: All online therapy sessions are conducted using a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to protect your privacy.
✔ Data Encryption: Electronic records, emails, and patient communications are stored in secure, encrypted systems.
✔ Limited Access: Your health records are only accessible to authorized personnel involved in your treatment.
✔ No Unauthorized Sharing: We do not sell, share, or disclose your information to third parties without your consent, except as required by law.

Your Rights Under HIPAA

As a patient, you have the following rights regarding your protected health information (PHI):
 

1. Right to Access Your Records

You may request copies of your medical records, therapy notes, and treatment history. Requests must be submitted in writing, and we will respond within 30 days.
 

2. Right to Amend Your Records

If you believe there is an error in your records, you have the right to request an amendment. We will review your request and make corrections when necessary.
 

3. Right to Confidential Communications

You can request that we communicate with you in a specific way (e.g., using a personal email instead of a work email or sending mail to a different address).
 

4. Right to Restrict Information Sharing

You may request limitations on how your health information is used or disclosed, except in cases where disclosure is required by law.
 

5. Right to File a Complaint

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with our office or with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint.

Situations Where We May Share Your Information

While we prioritize confidentiality, HIPAA regulations require that we disclose your information in the following circumstances:
 

✔ With Your Consent: We may share information with your primary care provider, psychiatrist, or other healthcare professionals if you give written authorization.

✔ For Treatment, Payment, and Healthcare Operations: We may use your information for billing, insurance claims, and coordination of care.

✔ As Required by Law: We must disclose information in cases of abuse, neglect, or a court order.

✔ To Prevent Harm: If there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, we may notify emergency services or appropriate authorities.
 

Questions or Concerns?

If you have any questions about HIPAA compliance, your privacy rights, or how we protect your health information, please contact us:

📧 Email: dr.ashleywilk@therefreshingsleepcenter.com
📞 Phone: (832) 916-4546
 

The Refreshing Sleep Center is dedicated to providing safe, confidential, and effective sleep therapy while ensuring the highest standards of privacy and security.