PATIENT RIGHTS

Access: You have the right to look at or get copies of your health information, with limited exceptions.  You may request that we provide copies in a format other than photocopies.  We will use the format you request unless we cannot practically do so.  (You must make a request in writing to obtain access to your health information.  You may obtain a form to request access by using the contact information listed at the end of this Notice.  We will charge you a reasonable cost-based fee for the expenses such as copies and staff time.  You may also request access by sending us a letter to the address listed at the end of this Notice.  If you request copies, we will charge you $1.00 for each page, $25.00 per hour for staff time to locate and copy your health information, and postage if you want the copies mailed to you.  If you request an alternate form, we will charge a cost-based fee for providing your health information in that format.  If you prefer, we will prepare a summary or an explanation of your health information for a fee.  Contact us using the information listed at the end of this notice for a full explanation of our fee structure).

Disclosure Accounting: You have the right to receive a list of instances in which we or our business associates disclosed your health information for purposes, other than treatment, payment, healthcare operations and certain activities, for the last 6 years, but not before April 14, 2003.  If you request this accounting more than once in a 12-month period, we may charge you a reasonable, cost-based fee for responding to these additional requests.

Restriction: You have the right to request that we place additional restrictions on our use or disclosure of your health information.  We are not required to agree to these additional restrictions, but if we do, we will abide by our agreement (except in emergency).

Alternative Communication:  You have the right to request that we communicate with you about your health information by alternative means or to alternative locations.  (You must make your request in writing).  Your request must specify the alternative means or location and provide satisfactory explanation how payments will be handled under the alternative means or location you request. 

 Amendment:   You have the right to request that we amend your health information.  (Your request must be in writing, and it must explain why the information must be amended).  We may deny your request under certain circumstances.

Electronic Notice:  If you receive this Notice by electronic mail (e-mail), you are entitled to receive this Notice in written form.

 Questions and Complaints:  If you want more information about our privacy practices or have questions or concerns, please let me know. If you are concerned that we may have violated your privacy rights, or you disagree with a decision made about access to your health information or in response to a request you made to amend or restrict the use or disclosures of your health information or to have us communicate with you by alternative means or at alternate locations you may submit a written complaint to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. We will provide you with the address to file your complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services upon request. We support your right to the privacy of your health information.  We will not retaliate in any way if you choose to file a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.