Privacy Policy

This notice describes how your health information may be used and disclosed, and how you can access this information. Please review it carefully.

I. My Pledge Regarding Health Information

I understand that your health information is personal, and I am committed to protecting it. I maintain records of the care and services you receive to provide you with quality care and comply with legal requirements. This notice applies to all records created by this practice and explains:

• How I may use and disclose your health information.

• Your rights regarding your health information.

• My legal obligations to protect your information.

I am required by law to:

1. Ensure the privacy of your protected health information (PHI).

2. Provide this notice outlining my legal duties and privacy practices.

3. Follow the terms of this notice currently in effect.

I reserve the right to change the terms of this notice. Any changes will apply to all information I maintain about you, and a revised notice will be available upon request and on my website.

II. How I May Use and Disclose Health Information About You

The following categories describe ways I may use and disclose your health information without your written authorization:

• For Treatment, Payment, or Health Care Operations: Your PHI may be used to coordinate care, process payments, or manage healthcare operations. For example, I may consult with another healthcare provider regarding your treatment.

• Lawsuits and Disputes: Your PHI may be disclosed in response to a court order or legal process, provided efforts are made to inform you or protect the information.

Other uses or disclosures may occur as outlined by law.

III. Uses and Disclosures Requiring Your Authorization

Certain uses and disclosures require your written consent, including:

• Psychotherapy Notes: Except as required by law or for treatment purposes, your written authorization is required to disclose psychotherapy notes.

• Marketing and Sale of PHI: Your PHI will not be used for marketing or sold under any circumstances.

IV. Uses and Disclosures That Do Not Require Your Authorization

Your PHI may be used or disclosed without your consent in the following situations:

• To comply with public health laws, report abuse, or prevent threats to health or safety.

• For judicial, law enforcement, or oversight activities as required by law.

• For workers’ compensation or similar programs.

• To remind you of appointments or share information about health-related benefits.

V. Uses and Disclosures Requiring You to Have the Opportunity to Object

• Family and Friends: I may disclose PHI to a family member or friend involved in your care unless you object. This consent may be obtained retroactively in emergencies.

VI. Your Rights Regarding Your PHI

You have the right to:

1. Request Limits on Uses and Disclosures: You may ask to limit the use of your PHI, though I may not always agree if it affects your care.

2. Request Confidential Communication: Specify how and where you prefer to be contacted.

3. Access Your Records: Request an electronic or paper copy of your medical record.

4. Amend Your Records: Request corrections to your PHI if you believe it is inaccurate or incomplete.

5. Receive a List of Disclosures: Obtain an accounting of PHI disclosures made in the last six years (excluding those for treatment, payment, or operations).

6. Receive a Copy of This Notice: Request a paper or electronic copy of this notice at any time.

Effective Date of This Notice:
This notice is effective as of the date of your signed acknowledgment.

Contact Information
If you have any questions about this notice or your privacy rights, please contact:

Cait Helton, PLLC
Virtual Therapy in Charlotte, NC