NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES
This notice describes how information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to this information. Please review it carefully. Download Here
Introduction
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) federal privacy law requires Children’s International Medical Group to provide this notice to you. As a parent/legal guardian of a patient at the doctor’s office, you are the patient’s “personal representative.” Please read this notice with the understanding that we are discussing “you” to mean the pediatric patient.
At Children’s International Medical Group, we are committed to treating and using protected health information (PHI) about you responsibly. This Notice of Privacy Practices describes how we may use and disclose your PHI to carry out treatment, payment, or healthcare operations (TPO) and for other purposes permitted or required by law. It also describes your rights to access and control your PHI.
Protected Health Information (PHI) refers to information about you, including demographic details, that may identify you and relates to your past, present, or future physical or mental health or condition and associated healthcare services.
Understanding Your Health Record/Information
Each time you visit Children’s International Medical Group, a record of your visit is made. This record typically includes:
- Your symptoms, examination and test results, diagnoses, treatment, and a plan for future care.
This information serves as:
- A basis for planning your care and treatment.
- A communication tool among health professionals.
- A legal document describing the care you received.
- Evidence for billing and payment purposes.
- A tool for educating health professionals.
- A source of data for planning and marketing.
- A means for assessing and improving care quality and outcomes.
By understanding your record and its use, you can:
- Ensure its accuracy.
- Better understand who accesses your information and why.
- Make informed decisions when authorizing disclosures.
Your Health Information Rights
Your health record is the physical property of Children’s International Medical Group, but the information within belongs to you. You have the right to:
- Obtain a copy of this notice.
- Inspect and request a copy of your PHI (fees may apply).
- Request amendments to your health record.
- Obtain a record of disclosures not related to TPO.
- Request alternative methods or locations for communication of your health information.
- Revoke authorization for disclosures (applies to future actions).
- Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures.
All requests must be in writing, and a nominal fee may apply for copies. Forms and additional information are available at the receptionist’s desk.
Our Responsibilities
Children’s International Medical Group is required to:
- Keep your PHI safe.
- Provide you with this notice and abide by its terms.
- Notify you if unable to honor a requested restriction.
We will not disclose your PHI without your authorization, except as outlined in this notice. Upon written revocation, we will discontinue the use or disclosure of your PHI as per the authorization procedures.
Examples of Permitted Disclosures
For Treatment:
- Your health information may be shared with professionals involved in your care to determine the best treatment plan.
For Payment:
- Your information may be used for billing purposes, including sharing details with insurance companies or third-party payers.
For Healthcare Operations:
- Your PHI may be used for quality assurance, administrative activities, customer service, and training purposes.
Additional Examples:
- Business Associates: Shared with third parties under contract for specific services (e.g., billing).
- Family Notification: Shared with individuals involved in your care, as necessary.
- Appointment Reminders: Staff may contact you or leave a message.
- Research, Marketing, Fundraising: Requires consent or authorization.
Specific Legal Disclosures
We may disclose PHI as required or permitted by law, including but not limited to:
- Public Health Authorities: For disease prevention/control or safety issues.
- FDA Reports: Regarding product safety and recalls.
- Legal Proceedings: In response to court orders or subpoenas.
- Law Enforcement and National Security: Under specific conditions.
Complaints or Questions
If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may file a complaint in person, in writing, or by phone. There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REPORT A PROBLEM
If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you can file a complaint (in person, in writing, or by phone) with the following personnel (there will be no retaliation for filing a complaint):
The practice’s Privacy Officer contact information: Compliance@cimgpeds.com
Children’s International, LLC 59101 Amber St
Slidell, LA 70461
OR
The Office for Civil Rights:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Room 509F, HHH Building Washington, D.C. 20201