SMS/Text Message Privacy Policy

SMS/Text Message Program Overview

Harmony House Group Home Inc. ("we," "our," or "us") may use text messaging (SMS/MMS) to communicate with residents, family members, guardians, staff, and other parties who opt in to receive text messages from us. This SMS Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, and protect information associated with our text messaging services.

By providing your mobile phone number and opting in to receive text messages, you consent to receive automated text messages from Harmony House Group Home at the phone number you provide.

1. Consent and Opt-In Requirements

1.1 Express Consent Required

We will only send you text messages if you have provided express written consent. Consent may be obtained through:

• Completion of an opt-in form on our website
• Signing a consent form during admission or onboarding
• Sending a specific opt-in keyword to our short code or phone number
• Verbal consent documented by our staff (with confirmation text)

1.2 Not Required for Services

1.3 Authorization for Protected Health Information

If you are a resident or family member and consent to receive text messages containing protected health information (PHI), you acknowledge that:

• Text messages are not secure and may be intercepted
• Anyone with access to your phone may be able to read your messages
• Your mobile carrier may have access to message content
• You assume the risk of using text messaging for health-related communications

2. Types of Text Messages We Send

Depending on your relationship with us and your consent preferences, you may receive:

3. Message Frequency and Timing

The frequency of text messages varies depending on the purpose:

• Appointment Reminders: Typically 1-2 messages per scheduled appointment
• Care Updates: Frequency varies based on resident needs and family preferences (may range from daily to weekly)
• Administrative Notifications: As needed, typically not more than 2-4 per month
• Emergency Alerts: Only when necessary for urgent situations
• Informational Messages: No more than 2-4 per month

We will not send text messages between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM local time unless it is an emergency or you have specifically requested communications outside these hours.

4. Information We Collect Through SMS

When you opt in to text messaging, we collect and use the following information:

• Phone Number: Your mobile phone number to send messages
• Carrier Information: Your mobile carrier for message routing
• Message Content: The content of text messages you send to us
• Delivery Data: Information about message delivery status and timing
• Consent Records: Documentation of your opt-in consent and preferences

We use this information solely for the purpose of providing text message communications as authorized by you. We do not sell or share your phone number with third parties for their marketing purposes.

5. Message and Data Rates

6. How to Opt Out (Unsubscribe)

You may opt out of receiving text messages at any time using any of these methods:

7. Help and Customer Support

For help with text messaging:

• Text HELP: Reply to any message with HELP to receive assistance information
• Call Us: (256) 695-5649 or (256) 695-5659
• Email Us: [email protected]

8. Security and Privacy of Text Messages

8.1 Security Limitations

Please be aware that:

• Text messages are not encrypted and are not a secure form of communication
• Text messages can be intercepted, forwarded, or read by unauthorized individuals
• Your mobile carrier and device manufacturer may have access to your messages
• Anyone with physical access to your phone may be able to read your messages

8.2 Protecting Your Privacy

To protect your privacy when using text messaging:

• Use a password or biometric lock on your mobile device
• Do not share your phone with others who should not have access to your messages
• Delete sensitive messages after reading them
• Be cautious about what information you include in text messages
• For highly sensitive health information, consider using secure communication methods instead

8.3 Our Security Practices

We take reasonable measures to protect text message information, including:

• Limiting access to text message systems to authorized personnel only
• Training staff on privacy and confidentiality requirements
• Using secure messaging platforms with access controls
• Minimizing the inclusion of sensitive personal information in text messages
• Maintaining records of consent and opt-out requests

9. Third-Party Service Providers

We may use third-party SMS/text messaging platforms to send and receive text messages on our behalf. These service providers are required to:

• Maintain the confidentiality and security of your information
• Use your information only for providing text messaging services
• Comply with applicable privacy laws and regulations
• Enter into Business Associate Agreements when handling protected health information

10. Supported Mobile Carriers

Our text messaging program is available to subscribers of participating carriers. Supported carriers include (but are not limited to):

* Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

11. Changes to This SMS Privacy Policy

We may update this SMS Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes by posting the updated policy on our website and/or sending you a text message notification. Your continued use of text messaging services after changes indicates acceptance of the updated policy.

12. Questions and Contact Information

If you have questions about this SMS Privacy Policy or our text messaging practices: