Privacy Policy

Arizona Rheumatology Consultants, PLC  
Updated: 02/13/2025  

Arizona Rheumatology Consultants, PLC  is committed to protecting the privacy and security of our patients' personal and health information. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, and safeguard patient information in compliance with applicable healthcare privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

1. Information We Collect
We collect and maintain various types of patient information to provide high-quality medical care, including:
- Personal Information: Name, date of birth, address, phone number, email address, and emergency contact details.
- Medical Information: Patient history, treatment records, prescriptions, test results, and referral documentation.
- Insurance and Billing Information: Insurance provider details, payment information, and claims history.

2. How We Use Your Information  
We use patient information to:
- Provide medical diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare services.
- Schedule and confirm appointments.
- Process billing and insurance claims.
- Communicate with patients regarding treatment plans and medical needs.
- Comply with legal and regulatory healthcare requirements.

3. Sharing and Disclosure of Information  
We do not sell or rent patient information. We may share it in the following situations:
- With Healthcare Providers: To coordinate patient care with specialists, labs, and hospitals.
- With Insurance Providers: For claims processing and payment verification.
- With Business Associates: Trusted third-party service providers that assist with medical and administrative operations under strict confidentiality agreements.
- As Required by Law: When necessary for legal compliance, court orders, or public health and safety concerns.

4. SMS and Marketing Privacy  
We respect your privacy and do not share mobile information with third parties for marketing or promotional purposes. All categories listed above exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.

5. Patient Rights and Choices  
Patients have the following rights concerning their medical information:
- Access and Copies: Patients can request copies of their medical records.
- Amendments: Patients may request corrections to their health information.
- Restrictions: Patients can request limits on how their information is shared.
- Confidential Communications:
Alternative contact methods may be requested.

6. Safeguarding Patient Information  
We take the following steps to protect patient information:
- Secure electronic medical records (EMR) systems.
- Encryption of sensitive data.
- Restricted access to authorized healthcare professionals only.
- Regular staff training on HIPAA compliance.

7. Changes to This Privacy Policy  
We reserve the right to update this policy at any time. Any changes will be communicated to patients as required by law.

8. Contact Information  
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact us:

Arizona Rheumatology Consultants, PLC  
5720 W Chandler Blvd. #3
Chandler, AZ 85226
(480) 568-6788

By receiving medical services from Arizona Rheumatology Consultants, PLC, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.