SMS Messaging Privacy Policy (HIPAA-Compliant)
Effective Date: January 27, 2026
TCR Policy URL Location: https://www.lafeetfootankle.com/privacy-policy
At LaFeet Foot & Ankle Center, we are committed to protecting your privacy. This SMS Messaging Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect the mobile phone information you provide to us.
1. Information We Collect
We collect your name, mobile phone number, and texting preferences (opt-in/opt-out status) when you:
- Voluntarily provide your number on our new patient intake forms.
- Verbally consent to receive messages during an office visit.
- Sign up for appointment reminders via our website or patient portal.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your mobile phone number for the following limited purposes related to your care:
- Appointment Reminders: Automated notifications about upcoming visits.
- Clinical Updates: Information regarding your treatment plan, orthotics ready for pickup, or post-procedure instructions.
- Practice Announcements: Office closures due to weather or changes in operating hours.
- Billing: Alerts regarding invoices or insurance processing.
Note: Message frequency varies based on your appointment volume and treatment needs.
3. No Sharing of Mobile Information (Strict Confidentiality)
We value your privacy and strictly confine your mobile data to our practice.
- No Third-Party Sharing: LaFeet Foot & Ankle Center does not sell, rent, loan, trade, or lease mobile phone numbers or SMS consent details to any third parties, affiliates, or business partners for marketing or promotional purposes.
- No Affiliate Sharing: Text messaging originator opt-in data and consent will not be shared with any other third parties.
- Service Providers: We may share your number with trusted software providers (e.g., our Electronic Health Record or billing system) solely for the purpose of delivering these messages to you on our behalf. These providers are contractually bound to keep your information secure and confidential.
4. Your Rights and Choices (Opt-In/Opt-Out)
- Opt-In: By providing your number, you agree to receive SMS/MMS messages from LaFeet Foot & Ankle Center.
- Opt-Out: You may unsubscribe from our SMS service at any time by replying STOP to any message you receive. You will receive one final confirmation message, and then no further SMS messages will be sent to your mobile device.
- Help: If you need assistance, reply HELP to any message or contact our office directly at (504) 475-3338.
5. Fees and Carriers
- Standard Rates: Message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier plan.
- Carrier Liability: Mobile carriers (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.
6. Contact Us
If you have questions regarding this SMS Privacy Policy, please contact our Compliance Officer:
LaFeet Foot & Ankle Center
10555 Lake Forest Blvd, Suite 3A
New Orleans, LA 70127
Phone: (504) 475-3338
Email:
