Privacy Policy & Website Consent
Effective Date: 12/30/2024
1. Introduction
Welcome to the website of Dr. John Pelosi, DPM, and Dr. John Watson, DPM. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparency in how we collect, use, and safeguard your information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we handle your personal and medical data when you visit our website, schedule appointments, or interact with our services.
By accessing and using our website, you acknowledge and consent to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.
2. Information We Collect
We collect the following types of information:
A. Personal Information
- Name, email address, phone number, and mailing address (when provided via contact forms).
- Date of birth and medical history (if submitted for appointment requests or medical inquiries).
B. Non-Personal Information
- Browser type, IP address, device information, and website usage statistics (collected via cookies and analytics tools).
C. Protected Health Information (PHI)
- Medical and health-related details submitted through appointment scheduling or online forms.
- Any sensitive health data shared via the website is protected under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information for:
- Appointment scheduling & patient inquiries
- Communication & follow-ups (via email, SMS, or phone)
- Providing medical services & treatment recommendations
- Improving website functionality through analytics and user feedback
- Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (e.g., HIPAA and state laws)
4. How We Protect Your Information
We implement the following safeguards to protect your data:
- HIPAA-compliant data encryption for medical records and online forms.
- Secure servers & firewalls to prevent unauthorized access.
- Strict access control policies for employees handling PHI.
- Data retention & disposal policies in accordance with legal standards.
We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties.
5. Cookies & Tracking Technologies
Our website uses cookies to improve user experience. Cookies help us:
- Understand how visitors interact with the site.
- Remember user preferences.
- Optimize website performance.
You can disable cookies through your browser settings, but some features may not function properly.
6. Third-Party Services & Data Sharing
We may share your information with third-party service providers who assist with:
- Appointment scheduling systems (e.g., Calendly, electronic health record systems).
- Payment processing (if applicable).
- Analytics & website optimization (e.g., Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel).
All third-party partners are required to comply with data protection regulations.
7. Your Rights & Choices
As a patient or website visitor, you have the following rights:
- Access & correction – You can request a copy of your personal data or ask us to correct inaccuracies.
- Data deletion – You can request the removal of your data unless required for medical or legal purposes.
- Marketing preferences – You can opt out of receiving promotional emails or communications.
To exercise these rights, please contact us at [Insert Contact Email].
8. HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices
As healthcare providers, we follow HIPAA regulations regarding patient information:
- PHI will only be shared for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations.
- We require your consent before sharing medical records with third parties (except when required by law).
- You can request restrictions on how your PHI is used or disclosed.
For a full HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices, please visit our office or request a copy via email.
9. Consent to Use Website & Digital Communication
By using our website and submitting information:
- You consent to the collection and use of your data as described in this Privacy Policy.
- You acknowledge that online communications (e.g., appointment forms, emails) may not be 100% secure and accept the inherent risks.
- You agree to receive digital communications related to appointments, treatment options, or clinic updates.
If you prefer not to receive electronic communications, please contact our office.
10. Updates to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in regulations, technology, or services. Updates will be posted on this page with the revised effective date.
11. Contact Information
For questions, concerns, or data access requests, please contact:
📍 Dr. John Pelosi, DPM & Dr. John Watson, DPM
