1. Introduction

Strong Children Wellness Medical Group, PLLC is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information when you visit strongchildrenwellness.com, use our patient portal or appointment booking system, interact with our text messaging program, or otherwise communicate with us electronically.

This policy applies to all information collected through our website, Phreesia appointment booking platform, electronic health record system, text messaging program, email communications, and any other digital services we provide.

2. Information We Collect

Personal Identifiers: Name, date of birth, address, phone number (including mobile), email address, Social Security Number (for insurance purposes), parent/guardian information for minors.

Health Information: Medical records, diagnoses, treatment plans, referral details, insurance information, appointment history, prescription information, lab and imaging results, consult notes.

Communication Data: Mobile phone number, messaging opt-in/opt-out status, records of text messages sent and received, email correspondence, call records.

Device and Usage Data: IP address, browser type, operating system, pages visited on our website, date and time of visits.

Insurance and Billing Data: Insurance plan information, Medicaid enrollment status, billing address, payment information.

3. How We Collect Information

We collect information directly from you when you book an appointment through Phreesia, complete intake forms, provide it to our staff in person or over the phone, opt in to our text messaging program, or submit information through our website. We also collect information from your insurance provider, referring physicians, and third-party platforms that operate on our behalf.

4. How We Use Your Information

• Provide, coordinate, and manage your healthcare services
• Schedule and confirm appointments, including subspecialty referrals
• Send appointment reminders and referral status updates via text, email, or phone
• Coordinate transportation for Medicaid-enrolled patients
• Process insurance claims and billing
• Comply with legal, regulatory, and accreditation requirements
• Improve our services, operations, and patient experience

5. Text Messaging & Electronic Communications

When you opt in to our text messaging program, we collect your mobile phone number, your opt-in consent, and records of messages sent and received. This information is used solely to coordinate your healthcare services, including appointment scheduling, referral updates, and care follow-up.

For opt-out instructions and message frequency details, see our SMS Policy.

6. How We Share Your Information

• Healthcare providers involved in your care (subspecialists, hospitals, laboratories)
• Your insurance company or managed care organization for claims processing
• Business associates who perform services on our behalf, subject to HIPAA Business Associate Agreements
• Government agencies as required by law (public health reporting, Medicaid)
• Transportation providers for Medicaid-eligible patients, with your consent

7. How We Protect Your Information

We implement administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal and health information in accordance with HIPAA, the HITECH Act, and applicable state laws — including encrypted communications, role-based access controls, secure electronic health record systems, regular security assessments, and staff training on privacy and security practices.

8. Data Retention

We retain your personal and health information in accordance with applicable federal and state record retention requirements. Medical records for minor patients are retained until the patient reaches the age of majority plus any additional period required by New York State law.

9. Your Rights

• Access and obtain a copy of your medical records and personal information
• Request corrections to your health information
• Request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures of your information
• Opt out of text messaging at any time by replying STOP
• File a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

To exercise these rights, call (718) 450-9242 or email info@strongchildrenwellness.com.

10. Children's Privacy

Our services are provided to families including minor children. Health information for minor patients is collected with the consent of a parent or legal guardian and is protected under the same standards described in this policy.

11. Website Analytics & Cookies

Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to improve your browsing experience and analyze website traffic. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We reserve the right to amend this Privacy Policy at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.