Effective Date: 1/2/26
At Lakes Region Retina, P.C., we are committed to protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal and medical information. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information about our patients and website visitors in accordance with federal and state privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
1. Information We Collect
We collect only the information necessary to provide high-quality medical care and administrative support. This includes:
- Personal details such as your name, date of birth, address, and contact information
- Medical and ocular history, treatment records, diagnostic images, and test results
- Insurance and billing information
- Information you provide through our website, forms, or communications
2. How We Use Your Information
Your information may be used to:
- Provide medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment
- Communicate with you about appointments or results
- Coordinate care with referring or primary-care providers
- Submit claims and obtain payment from your insurance company
- Conduct internal operations such as quality improvement and compliance
We will never sell or rent your personal information for marketing purposes.
3. Disclosure of Information
We may share your health information only as permitted or required by law, such as:
- With your written authorization
- With other healthcare professionals involved in your care
- With insurance companies for payment
- When required by public health authorities or legal obligations
All disclosures comply fully with HIPAA and applicable Minnesota privacy regulations.
4. Safeguards and Data Security
We maintain strict administrative, physical, and electronic safeguards to protect your data from unauthorized access or disclosure. Electronic medical records are stored securely and accessible only to authorized personnel.
5. Patient Rights
You have the right to:
- Access and obtain a copy of your medical record
- Request corrections to your health information
- Request restrictions on how your information is used or shared
- Receive a list of certain disclosures made about your information
- Obtain a copy of our Notice of Privacy Practices
Requests to exercise these rights must be submitted in writing to our Privacy Officer.
6. Website and Electronic Communications
If you use our website or communicate electronically (such as by email or portal), please note:
- Electronic communications may not always be fully secure; avoid sending detailed medical information via unencrypted email.
- Our website may collect limited non-personal data (e.g., browser type, visit date) to improve usability.
- We do not use cookies or tracking tools for marketing purposes.
7. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Any changes will be posted in our office and on our website with a revised effective date.
8. Contact Information
For questions or concerns about our Privacy Policy or privacy practices, please contact:
Privacy Officer
Lakes Region Retina, P.C.
13800 Bluestem Court, Baxter, MN 56425
Phone: 218-297-5344
Fax: 218-297-5363
Email: info@lakesregionretina.com