Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 02/21/2025
Last Updated: 02/21/2025

1. Introduction

Desert Health Clinic is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other applicable U.S. laws.

By using our website, desertclinic.net, and our medical services, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.

2. Information We Collect

Personal Information

Name, email address, phone number, and mailing address.
Information submitted through contact forms, appointment scheduling, or virtual consultations.

Protected Health Information (PHI)

Medical history, weight loss goals, treatment plans, prescriptions, and progress reports.
Information related to insurance, billing, and payment processing.

Technical & Tracking Information

IP address, browser type, and device details.
Cookies and analytics data to improve website functionality and user experience.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information for the following purposes:

To schedule and manage appointments, including telehealth visits.
To provide weight loss treatments, nutritional guidance, and medical consultations.
To prescribe and manage weight loss medications (if applicable).
To process payments and insurance claims.
To send appointment reminders, follow-up messages, and educational materials.
To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

We will only use your Protected Health Information (PHI) as permitted under HIPAA and will not share it without your consent, except where required by law.

4. Telehealth Consent

If you use our telehealth services, you acknowledge and agree that:

Telehealth involves electronic communication of medical information and may include video, audio, or text-based interactions.
There are limitations to telehealth, including the inability to conduct physical examinations, which may impact diagnosis and treatment.
Your privacy will be protected under HIPAA regulations, and all communications will be encrypted for security.
You have the right to discontinue telehealth services and seek in-person care at any time.
You must provide accurate and complete information during telehealth consultations.

If you have any concerns about telehealth, please discuss them with your provider before proceeding.

5. How We Protect Your Information

We take strict security measures to protect your personal and health information, including:

HIPAA-compliant encryption for data storage and transmission.
Access controls to limit PHI access to authorized personnel.
Regular security audits to maintain compliance and data integrity.

6. Information Sharing & Disclosure

We do not sell or rent your personal or health information. However, we may share information in the following cases:

With Healthcare Providers: To coordinate care as part of your weight loss program.
With Third-Party Service Providers: Payment processors, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and appointment scheduling tools.
For Legal Compliance: If required by law, court order, or government request.

7. Weight Loss Medication & Treatment Disclaimers

Prescription Medications: If weight loss medications are prescribed, they are based on medical evaluations and must be taken as directed.
Individual Results Vary: Weight loss results depend on multiple factors, including diet, exercise, and adherence to medical recommendations.
Potential Side Effects: Some weight loss medications and treatments may have side effects. It is your responsibility to report any adverse reactions to your provider.
Not a Guaranteed Outcome: Our weight loss programs are designed to support your health journey, but no specific weight loss outcome is guaranteed.

If you have concerns about medications or treatment plans, consult with your provider before proceeding.

8. Your HIPAA Privacy Rights

Under HIPAA, you have the following rights regarding your Protected Health Information (PHI):

Right to Access: Request a copy of your medical records.
Right to Correct: Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete records.
Right to Restrict Disclosures: Limit how your PHI is shared.
Right to Confidential Communications: Request alternative contact methods for receiving health-related information.
Right to File a Complaint: If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with us or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS).

To exercise these rights, contact us at [Your Contact Email].

9. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to improve our website’s functionality and analyze traffic. You can manage cookie settings through your browser preferences.

10. Marketing & Communication Preferences

We may send appointment reminders, follow-up messages, and health-related updates. You can opt out of marketing communications at any time by following the “unsubscribe” link in emails or contacting us directly.

11. Data Retention

We retain your personal and health information only as long as necessary to:

Provide weight loss treatments and services.
Comply with medical record-keeping laws.
Fulfill regulatory and legal requirements.

12. Third-Party Links & External Websites

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Please review their policies before providing personal information.

13. Updates to This Privacy Policy

We may update this policy periodically. Changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date. Continued use of our website constitutes acceptance of any updates.

14. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or your privacy rights, please contact us:

📍 Desert Health Clinic 2536 Rockwood Ave #107, Calexico CA
📧 [email protected]
📞 442-252-7313

If you believe your HIPAA rights have been violated, you may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) at www.hhs.gov.