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Privacy Policy and Terms of Service

University Pain & Spine Center offers cutting-edge care and personalized treatment plans for sports injuries, arthritis, and chronic pain. We prioritize conservative treatments whenever possible but employ advanced surgical techniques when needed. Known for empathy and genuine care, we ensure a welcoming atmosphere for all patients.

University Pain & Spine Center, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparent communication practices. This page provides comprehensive information about how we handle your personal information, your rights as a patient, and our policies regarding phone calls, SMS messaging, and digital communications.

Privacy Policy Overview

1. Collection and Use of Personal Information

  • Types of Information Collected: We collect personal information such as your name, contact details, date of birth, health history, and insurance information. This data is essential for delivering medical care, processing insurance claims, and maintaining accurate medical records.
  • Purpose of Data Collection: Personal information is used to facilitate medical treatment, schedule appointments, conduct follow-up communications, and manage billing and insurance claims.

2. Protection and Security of Your Data

  • Confidentiality: We implement stringent security measures to safeguard your personal health information (PHI) in compliance with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and other relevant privacy laws.
  • Data Storage and Encryption: Your data is stored securely, with advanced encryption protocols protecting both digital and physical records.
  • Access Control: Access to your personal information is limited to authorized medical and administrative personnel involved in your care.

3. Information Disclosure Practices

  • SMS and Digital Communication Terms: By providing your mobile number and opting in to receive SMS communications from UNIVERSITY PAIN & SPINE CENTER, you agree to receive messages related to appointment reminders, account notifications, and important updates regarding your care. Messaging frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. You can opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message. For assistance, reply HELP or visit https://upscnj.com. Phone numbers collected with SMS consent will not be sold, rented, or shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing purposes under any circumstances.
  • Disclosure for Treatment and Operations: We may share your PHI with other healthcare providers, laboratories, and insurance carriers involved in your care for treatment coordination, billing, and healthcare operations. Phone numbers collected with SMS consent, will not be sold, rented, or shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing purposes under any circumstances.
  • Authorized Disclosures: PHI may be disclosed to third parties with your written consent or as required by law (e.g., reporting to public health authorities or complying with legal orders).
  • Business Associates: We may share your PHI with third-party vendors who assist in our operations, under strict contractual obligations to protect your information.

4. Your Rights Regarding Personal Information

  • Access to Your Information: You have the right to request copies of your medical records and other PHI. Requests can be made through our Medical Records Department.
  • Amendments: If you believe that your medical records contain errors or incomplete information, you have the right to request amendments.
  • Restrictions: You may request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures of your information. While we will consider all requests, we may not be able to agree to all limitations based on legal and operational requirements.
  • Accounting of Disclosures: You can request a list of instances where your PHI has been disclosed, except for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations.

Digital Communications Policy

1. Use of Phone Calls and SMS Messaging

  • Purpose of Communications: We use phone calls and SMS messaging to provide appointment reminders, treatment follow-ups, and general practice updates. These communications are intended to enhance patient care and engagement.
  • Consent for Communications: By providing your phone number or contact information, you consent to receive communications via phone calls and SMS messaging. These messages may include information pertinent to your appointments, treatment plans, or billing updates.
  • Right to Opt-Out: Patients have the right to revoke permission to receive communications at any time. Opting out can be done by contacting our office directly or responding to SMS with “STOP” to unsubscribe from text messaging services.

2. Communication Security and Privacy

  • SMS Limitations: While we strive to ensure the security of all communications, SMS messaging may not be encrypted, making it potentially less secure than other forms of communication. For sensitive information, we recommend using our secure patient portal.
  • Phone Calls: Phone communications may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance purposes. We ensure that all discussions over the phone comply with HIPAA and internal privacy standards.

Patient Rights and Revocation of Permission

1. Right to Revoke Authorization

  • Process for Revocation: If you wish to revoke your consent for digital communications, you can do so at any time by notifying our office in writing or through your patient portal. Revocation does not affect any communications or disclosures made prior to the revocation.
  • Impact on Care: Opting out of digital communications may limit our ability to provide timely reminders and updates, but it will not affect the quality of medical care you receive.

2. Your Control Over Communication Preferences

  • Customizing Preferences: You can customize how we contact you by updating your preferences through the patient portal or by contacting our administrative office.
  • Communication Consent Forms: We provide consent forms outlining the type of communications you agree to receive. These forms are available for review and updates at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I know my personal information is protected?
We use industry-standard security measures, including encryption and access controls, to protect your data in compliance with HIPAA and other regulations.

Q2: Can I request to stop receiving SMS and phone call reminders?
Yes, you can opt-out of these services by notifying us through your patient portal, calling our office, or replying “STOP” to text messages.

Q3: Will revoking my consent affect my medical care?
No, revoking your consent for digital communications will not impact the quality of care you receive, but it may reduce the efficiency of appointment reminders and follow-up messages.

Q4: How can I request an amendment to my medical records?
You can contact our Medical Records Department to request changes or amendments to your records.

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