HIPAA Compliance at Michael J. Watson, DDS

At Michael J. Watson, DDS, we prioritize your privacy and are committed to ensuring that all your personal health information (PHI) is handled with the utmost care. Our practice adheres to the strict standards set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to protect the confidentiality and security of your health data.

What is HIPAA?

HIPAA is a federal law enacted to safeguard patients’ sensitive health information and ensure it remains confidential. Under HIPAA, healthcare providers are required to implement strict measures to protect patient information, prevent unauthorized access, and provide patients with rights regarding their health records.

Key Protections Under HIPAA

HIPAA offers several protections that directly benefit you as a patient:

• Confidentiality: Your personal health information is kept private and is only shared with authorized individuals.
• Security: Our practice uses advanced safeguards—both digital and physical—to protect your health data from unauthorized access.
• Patient Rights: You have the right to access your medical records, request corrections, and know how your information is used and shared.

How We Ensure HIPAA Compliance

At Michael J. Watson, DDS, we are committed to the highest standards of data privacy and security. Here’s how we ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations:

Secure Patient Records

All patient records, whether stored electronically or physically, are protected through advanced encryption and security measures. This ensures that your personal health information remains secure and confidential.

Staff Training

Our entire team is regularly trained on HIPAA policies and procedures. Every staff member understands the importance of protecting patient privacy and is equipped to handle your health information in compliance with federal regulations.

Access Controls

Access to patient information is strictly controlled. Only authorized personnel involved in your care or administration have access to your records. This limited access ensures that your information is only shared with those who need it to provide care.

Data Encryption

We utilize encryption for all electronic communications and data storage to prevent unauthorized access to your personal health information. This protects your data during transmission, such as when we coordinate care with other healthcare providers.

Your Rights Under HIPAA

As a patient of Michael J. Watson, DDS, you have important rights regarding your personal health information:

• Access Your Records: You can request a copy of your dental records at any time.
• Request Corrections: If you believe there is an error in your health records, you can request corrections.
• Control Sharing: You have the right to know how your information is shared and can request limits on certain disclosures.
• Receive Notifications: In the unlikely event of a data breach involving your health information, you will be promptly notified.

Why HIPAA Compliance Matters

Your trust and confidence are important to us. By ensuring compliance with HIPAA, we provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your health information is handled with the highest level of privacy and security. Our focus on compliance also reflects our broader commitment to providing safe, effective, and personalized care.