This SMS Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect the mobile phone numbers and related information of individuals who enroll in our text messaging (SMS/MMS) program. This SMS Privacy Policy applies solely to our text messaging program. This SMS Privacy Policy supplements, and does not replace, our Notice of Privacy Practices, which separately governs how we collect, use, and disclose your protected health information (PHI).

1.             INFORMATION WE COLLECT.  We collect only what we need to operate the program: your mobile phone number, your opt-in and consent record (including the date, time, and method of consent), your responses to our messages (including STOP and HELP requests), and any name or reference you provide when enrolling.

2.             HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION.  We use this information only to send the text messages you agreed to receive (such as appointment reminders, notifications, and service-related messages), to respond to your requests, to process your opt-out requests, and to maintain records of consent as required by applicable law and carrier requirements.

3.             NO SHARING OR SALE OF MOBILE INFORMATION.  We do not share or sell your mobile phone number, SMS opt-in data, or consent to receive text messages with or to any third parties or affiliates for their marketing or promotional purposes. No mobile information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes, and text messaging opt-in data and consent will not be shared with any third parties. We may share information only with service providers that operate the program on our behalf (and only for that purpose) or where required by law. Where a text message contains your protected health information, our use and disclosure of that information is also governed by our Notice of Privacy Practices and applicable health-privacy laws.

4.             CONSENT (OPT-IN).  We send text messages only to individuals who have provided prior express consent, and consent is not a condition of purchasing any goods or services. Message frequency varies, and message and data rates may apply. Our text messaging program is limited to treatment- and operations-related communications; we will not use or disclose your protected health information to send marketing or promotional text messages without your separate, prior written authorization that complies with HIPAA, and your consent to receive text messages is not a HIPAA authorization.

5.             OPT-OUT AND HELP.  You may opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message, after which we will send one confirmation and will not message you again unless you opt in again; reply HELP, or use the contact details below, for assistance.

6.             CONTACT US.  If you have any questions about this SMS Privacy Policy or our text messaging program, contact us at:  hipaa@americanvisionpartners.com