At Naturally Inclined Health (NIH), we are dedicated to protecting your personal information and ensuring your privacy. This policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your data.

1. Confidentiality and Handling of Information

Patient information is shared only with your naturopathic doctor or other practitioners as necessary, in a confidential manner. All employees, associates, contractors, and owners ("NIH Team") are required to treat patient information, trade secrets, and financial details as confidential. They must take all necessary precautions to prevent unauthorized disclosure and are required to sign confidentiality agreements.

Patient information is stored on private, password-protected computers accessible only to NIH staff and practitioners. We use OutSmart Servers and Doxy.me for online sessions. For online visits, personal information is managed in coordination with OutSmart and Doxy.me, as detailed in their privacy policies:

 

• Doxy.me Privacy Policy

• OutSmart Privacy Policy

2. Collection and Use of Personal Information

Personal information is collected and used in accordance with the Health Professions Act (HPA), the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA), and, where applicable, the Freedom of Information and Privacy Act (FOIP). Information is used for:

 

• Collecting fees

• Mailing forms

• Arranging appointments

• Facilitating patient treatment

• Communicating with patients and other healthcare providers as requested

• Complying with legal requirements

• Managing treatment records

Your personal information will not be used for purposes other than those outlined in the Consent for Treatment form you sign upon engaging with our services. Written consent is required for any release of information, except as permitted by law. In special cases, verbal consent may be obtained for limited information release, which will be discussed with you beforehand.

 

3. Confidentiality Exceptions

Confidentiality may be breached in the following situations:

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•  Imminent Danger: If there is an imminent risk of danger to you or another person, we are legally and ethically required to take necessary actions, including contacting authorities if needed.

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• Abuse: If there is reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable person, we must inform the appropriate authorities.

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• Requests by Other Professionals: Requests for information from other professionals will be discussed with you and require written permission unless mandated by a court order.

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• Electronic Privacy: You acknowledge the limitations of privacy on electronic platforms used by NIH, as outlined in the Consent for Treatment form. 

 

4. Record Retention and Destruction

In compliance with legal requirements, patient information is retained for 10 years from the last visit or 10 years after a minor’s 18th birthday, whichever is longer. After this period, records will be destroyed in a confidential manner.

 

5. Patient Rights and Access

You have the right to access, correct, or request the deletion of your personal information. You can view your treatment plans and resources on your patient portal. To request access to your information, please submit a written request.

 

6. Policy Changes

This Privacy Policy is subject to change at any time. Major changes will be communicated via a notice in our office and by email. Please note that unsubscribing from our newsletters will prevent you from receiving these communications.

 

7. Contact Information

For any questions or concerns about this policy, or to file a complaint, please contact us at info@naturallyinclinedhealth.com.

 

Acceptance

By engaging with Naturally Inclined Health, you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.