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Privacy Policy

Effective Date: April 29, 2026

 

At Bridge of Hope Therapy PLLC, we are committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our clients’ personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and disclose your information, as required under HIPAA, state laws, and professional ethical standards. By receiving services from our practice, you consent to the practices outlined in this policy.

 

1. Information We Collect

We collect personal information necessary to provide effective Speech Therapy, including:

  • Personal Identification: Name, date of birth, address, phone number, email.

  • Health Information: Personal health history, medical conditions, treatment plans, and assessments.

  • Payment Information: Insurance details, billing records, and payment method information.

  • Electronic Communication Data: Emails, telehealth interactions, or forms completed online.

  • Usage Data: Information about website usage for administrative and clinical purposes, including cookies where applicable.

 

2. How We Collect Information

  • Directly from clients: Intake forms, assessments, in-person or telehealth sessions.

  • From third parties: Insurance companies, other healthcare providers (with your consent).

  • Electronic communications: Email, telehealth platforms, and secure messaging systems provided by our practice.

 

3. Use of Personal and Health Information

Your information is used only for purposes permitted or required by law and includes:

  • Providing Speech Therapy and related health services.

  • Billing and payment processing, including insurance claims.

  • Scheduling, sending appointment reminders, and managing clinical records.

  • Consulting with other healthcare providers, when necessary, with written consent.

  • Compliance with legal, regulatory, and professional standards.

 

4. Disclosure of Information

We will never sell or rent your personal information. We may share information only as required or permitted by law, including:

  • With other healthcare providers for treatment coordination (with your authorization).

  • For payment and insurance purposes.

  • When required by law, such as reporting abuse, court orders, or a serious threat to health or safety.

  • To business associates or contractors who provide services and who are bound to safeguard your information, such as billing or electronic health record providers.

 

5. Security of Information

Bridge of Hope Therapy PLLC implements administrative, technical, and physical measures to protect your information, including:

  • Encrypted telehealth and email communications.

  • HIPAA-compliant software and electronic health record systems.

  • Restricted access to individuals who need information to provide care.

  • Secure storage of paper and digital records. Clients are responsible for maintaining confidentiality of personal devices and login credentials.

 

6. Retention of Records

Health records are maintained according to HIPAA and state requirements:

  • Adult clients: minimum of 7 years after the last date of service.

  • Minor clients: until 7 years after the client reaches age 18, whichever is longer.
    Records are securely destroyed after the retention period expires.

 

7. Client Rights

You have the right to:

  • Inspect and copy your health records.

  • Request amendments to your records.

  • Request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures.

  • Request confidential communications through specified channels.

  • Withdraw consent for certain disclosures, with the understanding that prior disclosures cannot be undone.

  • File complaints regarding privacy practices without fear of retaliation.

Requests to exercise these rights should be submitted in writing to Bridge of Hope Therapy PLLC, using the contact information below.

 

8. Telehealth Privacy

For telehealth sessions, we implement:

  • Encrypted teleconferencing platforms with HIPAA compliant Business Associate Agreements.

  • Verification procedures to ensure client identity.

  • Guidelines for safe participation to minimize unauthorized access.

 

9. Website and Cookies

If you interact with our website:

  • Cookies may be used for functionality and statistics.

  • Personal information collected online is protected securely, and sensitive data (such as contact requests) is encrypted using SSL.

  • Our website may link to other sites; we are not responsible for their privacy practices.

 

10. Changes to This Policy

Bridge of Hope Therapy PLLC reserves the right to amend this Privacy Policy at any time in response to new laws, regulations, or organizational improvements. The current version supersedes prior versions and is available upon request.

 

11. Contact Information

If you have questions, requests, or complaints regarding privacy practices, please contact:

Bridge of Hope Therapy PLLC
6136 7 Lks W

West End, NC 27376

Email: bridgeofhopeslp@gmail.com
Phone: 919-307-5932

 

You may also submit complaints to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.

 

Acknowledgment of Receipt
By receiving services, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this privacy policy. You may receive a paper or electronic copy upon request.

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