Notice of Privacy Practices – Patient Protected Health Information

Equality Health Group (DBA Equality Health Group Pharmacy / Equality Health)

Effective Date: January 1, 2024

Our Commitment to Protecting Your Health Information

Equality Health Group (EHG) is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and security of your personal information and Protected Health Information (PHI). This Notice explains how we may use and disclose your health information, your rights regarding that information, and our legal responsibilities.

We comply with applicable federal and state privacy laws, including HIPAA and other healthcare privacy regulations.

Our Legal Duties

• Maintain the privacy and security of PHI
• Provide this Notice of Privacy Practices
• Notify affected individuals of breaches of unsecured PHI when required by law
• Follow the privacy practices described in this Notice

How We May Use and Disclose Your Information

We may use and disclose your information for:

• Treatment
• Payment
• Healthcare operations
• Working with business associates
• Uses and disclosures required or permitted by law
• Public health reporting
• Oversight activities
• Judicial proceedings
• Law enforcement purposes
• Workers’ compensation claims
• Protection of health and safety

Uses Requiring Your Authorization

We will obtain authorization where required by law, including certain marketing uses and any sale of PHI. Authorizations may be revoked in writing.

Privacy Protections for HIV, Hepatitis C, PrEP, STI/STD Testing and Treatment Services

Equality Health Group recognizes that information related to HIV, Hepatitis C, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), HIV prevention services including PrEP, and related healthcare services may be particularly sensitive and confidential.

Enhanced Confidentiality

This information is maintained in accordance with applicable federal and state privacy and confidentiality laws, including any additional protections that may apply.

Permitted Uses and Disclosures

Information may be used or disclosed only as permitted or required by law, including treatment, payment, healthcare operations, public health reporting, patient-authorized activities, and other legally permitted purposes.

Public Health Reporting

Certain communicable diseases may be reported to public health authorities as required by law.

Communications Regarding Sensitive Services

Patients may request confidential communications and alternative contact methods where permitted.

Telehealth and Electronic Communications

Reasonable safeguards are used to protect patient information when services are provided electronically.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

EHG does not discriminate based on HIV status, Hepatitis C status, sexual health conditions, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, age, religion, or other protected characteristics.

Patient Rights

Patients may:

• Access records
• Request corrections
• Request restrictions
• Request confidential communications
• Receive an accounting of disclosures
• Receive a copy of this notice
• File complaints without retaliation

Website Privacy and Online Information

EHG may collect website-submitted information, device information, usage data, cookies, and analytics information to improve services and website functionality.

Data Security

EHG maintains administrative, physical, and technical safeguards, including access controls, workforce training, encryption where appropriate, and monitoring of information systems.

State Privacy Rights

Residents of certain states may have additional rights related to access, correction, deletion, or restriction of personal information as required by applicable law.

Changes to This Notice

EHG may update this Notice from time to time. Updated versions will be posted on the website and become effective upon posting unless otherwise required by law.

Contact Information