At SmartStep Foot and Ankle, we understand that your health and privacy are top priorities. As a 100% virtual podiatry practice serving all of North and South Carolina, we rely on technology to connect with our patients. Naturally, a common question we receive is about the security of these online visits: "Are telehealth appointments covered by HIPAA?"
The short answer is yes, absolutely. The security and privacy of your protected health information (PHI) are non-negotiable for us. SmartStep Foot and Ankle is a covered entity under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and we take our compliance very seriously.
What Does HIPAA Compliance Mean for Your Telehealth Visit?
HIPAA sets the national standard for the protection of sensitive patient health information. It applies to all "covered entities," which includes most healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. When we say our telehealth visits are HIPAA-compliant, it means we follow a strict set of rules and safeguards to protect your data.
Secure Technology
We use a secure, encrypted video conferencing platform specifically designed for healthcare. Unlike public video services like FaceTime or Skype, which are not designed for healthcare and do not meet HIPAA standards, our platform has the necessary security features to protect your information from unauthorized access. This includes technical safeguards like data encryption to ensure your communication is private.
Confidentiality in Practice
HIPAA compliance is about more than just technology; it's about the procedures we follow. Your podiatrist conducts all virtual visits from a private, secure location. We also ask that our patients in North and South Carolina find a private space for their appointment to ensure their privacy. This combination of secure technology and professional practice creates a safe and confidential environment for your care.
Data Security
Any and all patient information, from your medical records to the information you share during your virtual visit, is stored and transmitted securely.
A Promise to Our Carolina Patients
Whether you're in the bustling city of Raleigh, the historic heart of Columbia, or a quiet coastal town, we've made a commitment to providing the same high standard of care and privacy you would expect from a traditional in-person visit. The convenience of telehealth does not come at the expense of your security. We've chosen our technology and designed our processes with your trust and confidentiality at the forefront.
Beyond Compliance: Our Commitment to Your Privacy
At SmartStep Foot and Ankle, we believe that security is an ongoing process, not just a one-time checkmark. Our commitment to your privacy goes beyond just meeting HIPAA requirements.
It's built into every part of our practice. This includes regular security audits of our systems, continuous training for our staff on privacy protocols, and a constant effort to use only the most secure and reputable platforms available. Your trust is the foundation of our practice, and we work hard to earn and keep it every single day. We want you to feel as safe and secure during your virtual visit as you would in a traditional clinic.
Step Confidently into the Future with SmartStep Foot and Ankle
Your health and privacy are our highest priorities. If you are a resident of North or South Carolina in need of expert podiatric care, you can trust that your virtual visit with SmartStep Foot and Ankle is not only convenient but also secure and fully compliant with all HIPAA regulations.
Whether you’re dealing with foot pain, a fungal infection, concerns about ongoing mobility challenges, or something in between, SmartStep Foot and Ankle can help, virtually. Book your appointment with our team today to get started!
Dr. Thurmond Lanier
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