Patient Privacy & HIPAA Notice

Effective Date: October 31st, 2025
Practice Name: Emerald NP in Family Health PLLC
Provider: Gaelle Morris, MSN, FNP-BC, AGACNP-BC, RNFA

Our Commitment to Your Privacy

Emerald NP in Family Health is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and security of your personal and health information. We comply with all applicable federal and New York State laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to ensure your information is handled with the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Protected Health Information (PHI)

Protected Health Information (PHI) includes any individually identifiable health information related to your physical or mental health, medical history, diagnosis, treatment, or payment for healthcare services.

We collect and use PHI only as necessary to:

Provide healthcare services
Communicate with you about your care
Maintain accurate medical records
Comply with legal and regulatory obligations

HIPAA-Compliant Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

Emerald NP in Family Health utilizes a HIPAA-compliant Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system to store, manage, and transmit patient information securely. This system includes administrative, physical, and technical safeguards designed to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.

Only authorized individuals involved in your care or operations are permitted access to your medical record.

Use and Disclosure of Information

Your health information may be used or disclosed without your authorization only when permitted or required by law, including for:

Treatment, payment, and healthcare operations
Public health reporting as required by law
Legal or regulatory compliance

We will never sell, market, share, or solicit your personal or medical information to third parties without your informed consent and written authorization, except as required by law.

Authorization & Consent

Any use or disclosure of your information beyond what is legally permitted will require:

Your explicit informed consent
Written authorization specifying what information may be shared, with whom, and for what purpose

You have the right to revoke authorization in writing at any time, except where action has already been taken based on your permission.

Telehealth & Electronic Communication

Telehealth services and electronic communications are conducted using secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms whenever required by law. While no system can guarantee absolute security, reasonable safeguards are always in place to protect your information.

You are encouraged to use secure networks and private locations during telehealth visits to further protect your privacy.

Your Rights Under HIPAA

You have the right to:

Access and obtain a copy of your medical records
Request corrections to your health information
Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures
Request confidential communications
Receive an accounting of disclosures
File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

Exercising these rights will not affect your access to care or result in retaliation.

New York State Privacy Protections

In addition to HIPAA, Emerald NP in Family Health complies with New York State privacy and confidentiality laws, which may provide additional protections for sensitive health information.

Safeguards & Security

We implement appropriate safeguards to protect your information, including:

Secure electronic systems
Access controls
Staff training on confidentiality and privacy
Regular review of privacy practices

Despite these measures, electronic communication carries inherent risks, which you acknowledge by participating in telehealth services.

Changes to This Notice

Emerald NP in Family Health reserves the right to update this Privacy & HIPAA Notice as laws or practice operations change. Any updates will be posted on our website with the revised effective date.

Questions or Concerns

If you have questions about this notice, your privacy rights, or how your information is handled, please contact:

Emerald NP in Family Health
📧 Email: emeraldfamilyhealth@gmail.com
📞 Phone: (845)445-7349

If you believe your rights have been violated, you may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services without fear of retaliation.

Summary Statement

Your trust matters. Your information is protected.
Your privacy will never be compromised without your knowledge and consent.