Privacy Policy

Overview

This Privacy Policy describes how Cannon Family Dentistry ("we," "our," or "us") collects, uses, and protects your personal and health information in accordance with applicable laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH), and 42 CFR Part 2 governing substance use disorder records.

Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

  • Personal identifying information (name, address, date of birth, phone number, email)

  • Insurance and billing information

  • Dental and medical health history

  • Treatment records, x-rays, and clinical notes

  • Website usage data (cookies, IP address, browser type)

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Provide dental care and treatment

  • Process payments and insurance claims

  • Communicate with you regarding appointments and care

  • Improve our services and website functionality

  • Comply with legal and regulatory requirements

HIPAA Privacy Practices

We are required by law to maintain the privacy of your Protected Health Information (PHI). We will not use or disclose your PHI without your authorization, except as permitted or required by law, including:

  • Treatment, payment, and healthcare operations

  • Public health reporting

  • Law enforcement requests (when legally required)

You have the right to:

  • Access and obtain a copy of your records

  • Request corrections to your records

  • Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures

  • Receive an accounting of disclosures

  • File a complaint without fear of retaliation

Substance Use Disorder Records (42 CFR Part 2)

Certain health information related to substance use disorder (SUD) diagnosis, treatment, or referral is protected under federal law (42 CFR Part 2), which provides stricter confidentiality protections than HIPAA.

We will not disclose any SUD-related information without your explicit written consent, except in limited circumstances permitted by law, such as:

  • Medical emergencies

  • Court orders

  • Scientific research (with appropriate safeguards)

Any disclosure made with your consent will include a prohibition on redisclosure unless further consent is obtained, as required by federal law.

Website Privacy & Cookies

Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to enhance your experience. This may include:

  • Tracking website traffic and performance

  • Remembering user preferences

You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies if preferred.

Data Security

We implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information, including:

  • Secure electronic health record systems

  • Encrypted communications when applicable

  • Limited access to authorized personnel only

Third-Party Services

We may use third-party service providers (such as billing companies or website hosting services) who are required to comply with HIPAA and protect your information.

Changes to This Policy

We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or your rights, please contact us:

Cannon Family Dentistry
6785 Myers Lake Ave NE, Suite A
Rockford, Michigan 49341
Phone: (616) 874-6040

Acknowledgment

By using our website or receiving services from our practice, you acknowledge that you have been informed of our privacy practices.