Total Speech Therapy Terms and Conditions / Privacy Policy

Total Speech Therapy respects your privacy. By opting into our SMS messaging service, you agree to the following terms regarding how we handle your data:

• Data Collection: We will collect your name, email address, mailing address, and mobile phone number when you sign up for SMS updates. The information will be collected via the website contact form, email, rental agreement, or third-party reservation systems.
• Data Usage: We use your data solely for sending updates, promotions, and reminders related to our products or services.
• Data Security: We protect your data with secure storage measures to prevent unauthorized access.
• Data Retention: We retain your information as long as you are subscribed to our SMS service. You may request deletion at any time.
• MESSAGE AND DATA RATES MAY APPLY. Your mobile carrier may charge fees for sending or receiving text messages, especially if you do not have an unlimited texting or data plan.
• Messages are recurring, and message frequency varies.
• Contact Total Speech Therapy at 410-696-3301 or yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com for HELP or to STOP receiving messages.
• Opt-Out: You can opt out of the SMS list at any time by texting, emailing, or replying STOP or UNSUBSCRIBE to yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com or 410-696-3301. After unsubscribing, you will receive a final SMS to confirm you have unsubscribed, and we will remove your number from our list within 24 hours.
• You can send HELP for additional assistance, and you will receive a text including our Phone number, email, and website. We are here to help you.
• Non-Sharing Clause: We do not share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. (Company Name) will not sell, rent, or share the collected mobile numbers.

Privacy Policy for Patient Text Communications

Effective Date: January 1st, 2025

At Total Speech Therapy (referred to as “we,” “our,” or “us”), your privacy and the security of your health information are of utmost importance. This privacy policy outlines how we communicate with patients via text messaging while remaining compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

1. Purpose of Text Communications

We may contact you via text message for the following purposes only:

• Appointment-related notifications: Including reminders, scheduling changes, or cancellations.
• Initial contact: To confirm services or provide information after your initial inquiry.
• Company news or updates: Regarding events or changes within our organization that may impact
  your care (e.g., changes in hours of operation, service availability).

We do not share or discuss sensitive personal health information (PHI) through text messages.

2. Consent for Text Communications

We will obtain your consent before sending text messages. By agreeing to receive text messages from our company, you acknowledge and accept the following:

• Text messages may contain limited information related to your care or appointments.
• Standard text messaging services may not be fully secure, and there is a risk that unauthorized parties could access or intercept messages.
• You can opt out of receiving text messages at any time by contacting our office.

3. Security of Communications

We strive to protect your privacy and follow all HIPAA requirements when communicating with you. To
minimize risks:

• Text messages will not contain sensitive information such as diagnoses, medical histories, or treatment plans.
• Only authorized personnel will have access to communication records.
• We use “Grasshopper” to manage and monitor text communications securely.

4. Use of Third-Party Platforms

We may use a third-party platform to send text messages. We ensure that any third-party service provider handling patient communications has signed a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) and complies with HIPAA regulations. This agreement ensures that the provider protects your information according to federal privacy and security standards.

5. Documentation of Text Communications

Any text message related to your care may be recorded in your medical record for documentation purposes. This includes messages regarding appointments, cancellations, or other communications that affect your care.

6. Opting Out of Text Communications

You may choose to stop receiving text messages from us at any time by contacting our office at 410-696-3301 or replying with the word “STOP” to any message. Once you opt-out, you will no longer receive non-urgent messages but may still be contacted in case of emergencies or critical updates.

7. Reporting Privacy Concerns

If you believe your privacy has been compromised due to our text communications, please contact us immediately at:

Total Speech Therapy

Privacy Officer: Yasminah Abdullah-McKoy

Phone: 410-696-3301

Email: yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com

Address: 1001 Pine Heights Ave Suite 301, Baltimore, MD 21229

We take all privacy concerns seriously and will investigate any potential breaches in accordance with
HIPAA regulations.

8. Changes to This Policy

We reserve the right to update or change this privacy policy at any time. Changes will be posted on our website and become effective immediately. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.

By continuing to receive text communications from us, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this privacy policy.