Privacy Policy

Introduction

Advanced Gastro-Intestinal Medical Associates ("AGI," "we," "our," or "us"), led by Patrick Peiying Xiao, MD, is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or use our services.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide, including:

• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Mailing address
• Health information related to gastroenterology care
• Insurance information
• Any other information you choose to provide

Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect certain information, including your IP address, browser type, operating system, access times, and the pages you have viewed directly before and after accessing the website.

SMS/Text Message Communications

By submitting a form on our website and signing up for texts, you consent to receive text messages from Advanced Gastro-Intestinal Medical Associates at the phone number you provided. These messages may include:

• Appointment reminders and confirmations
• Procedure preparation instructions
• Important updates about your care
• Health tips and wellness information

Important SMS Terms:

• Messages may be sent using an autodialer
• Consent is not a condition of treatment - you can still receive our services without opting in to text messages
• Message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier plan
• Message frequency varies based on your appointments and care needs
• To opt out: Reply STOP to any text message at any time to stop receiving messages
• For help: Reply HELP to any text message for assistance

How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, maintain, and improve our gastroenterology services
• Schedule and manage appointments for procedures
• Send appointment reminders and procedure prep instructions
• Communicate with you about your care
• Process payments and billing
• Comply with legal obligations
• Protect the safety and security of our patients and staff

HIPAA Compliance

As a healthcare provider, we are subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). We maintain appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect your Protected Health Information (PHI). For more details about how we handle your health information, please request a copy of our Notice of Privacy Practices at our office.

Information Sharing

We may share your information in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: Third parties who perform services on our behalf (e.g., payment processing, SMS services)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
• Healthcare Operations: As permitted under HIPAA for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations
• With Your Consent: When you have given us permission to share your information

We do not sell your personal information to third parties.

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website may use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your experience. You can set your browser to refuse all cookies or to indicate when a cookie is being sent.

Data Security

We implement reasonable security measures to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information
• Correct inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your information (subject to legal requirements)
• Opt out of marketing communications
• Request a copy of your health records

Children's Privacy

Our website is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the "Last Updated" date.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us: