Notice of Privacy Practices and HIPAA Compliance

Metropolitan Smile Design

Our Commitment to Your Privacy

Metropolitan Smile Design is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your protected health information (PHI). This Notice of Privacy Practices explains how dental and health information about you may be used and disclosed, and how you can access this information.

We are required by law to maintain the privacy of your PHI, provide you with this notice, and follow the terms described here in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

How We May Use and Disclose Your Health Information

Treatment

We may use your health information to provide dental care and related services, including sharing information with dentists, dental hygienists, specialists, laboratories, pharmacies, and other healthcare professionals involved in your care.

Payment

We may use and disclose your health information to bill and collect payment from dental benefit plans, health plans, or other insurance providers.

Healthcare Operations

We may use your health information to operate our dental practice, improve quality of care, train staff, conduct audits, and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.

Other Permitted Uses and Disclosures

• Public health reporting
• Health oversight activities
• Legal proceedings or law enforcement requests
• Workers’ compensation claims
• Preventing serious threats to health or safety

Any use or disclosure not described above will require your written authorization unless otherwise permitted by law.

Your Rights Regarding Your Health Information

• Access your dental or medical records
• Request corrections to inaccurate information
• Request confidential communications
• Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures
• Receive an accounting of disclosures
• Request a copy of this notice

Website and Digital Security

Our website and online systems may collect limited personal information when you submit forms or request appointments. We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect this information.

Changes to This Notice

We reserve the right to change this Notice of Privacy Practices at any time. Any changes will be posted on this page.

Questions or Complaints

If you have questions or believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may contact us. You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Filing a complaint will not affect your care.

Disclaimer

This notice describes general privacy practices and does not replace professional advice or create a patient-provider contract.