Privacy Policy & Notice of Privacy Practices

Edwin E. Dilone (“Therapist”) provides mental health services and collects specific personal data to facilitate professional consultations. This document informs you of how your data is collected, used, and protected in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the GDPR, the CCPA, and other applicable regulations.

1. Data Collection & Use

To provide effective therapy, I process the following categories of information:

  • Identifying Data: Your name, address, gender, date of birth, and contact information.

  • Health & Clinical Data: Clinical notes, assessments, session transcripts, and insights.

  • Session Recordings: Audio and video recordings of telehealth sessions, which are only stored if you provide explicit consent.

  • AI Integration: I utilize Upheal, Inc. to generate AI-driven transcriptions and summaries, allowing me to focus fully on our conversation rather than manual notetaking.

2. Data Retention & Access

  • Retention: In accordance with Florida Administrative Code Rule 64B4-9.001, your records are maintained for 7 years.

  • Sub-Processors: Your data may be processed by trusted technical partners, including Google Workspace, Upheal, Doximity, and Headway.

  • Legal Disclosures: Data may be disclosed if required by law, such as through a court order or administrative agency.

3. HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices

This section outlines your rights regarding your Protected Health Information (PHI) used for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations.

Limits of Confidentiality

While your privacy is protected by law, I am legally obligated to disclose information without your consent in the following situations:

  • Abuse Reporting: Suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child (under 18) or a vulnerable adult must be reported to the FLORIDA Abuse Hotline.

  • Safety Concerns: If there is a clear and immediate probability of physical harm to yourself or others, I may take protective action, including notifying the police or family members.

  • Legal Proceedings: Information may be released if compelled by a court order or specific legal subpoenas.

Your Rights as a Patient

You have the following rights regarding your care and records:

  • Ethical Treatment: You have the right to treatment without discrimination.

  • Access Records: You may inspect or obtain copies of your PHI by submitting a written request. Note that a copying fee of $1.00 per page applies.

  • Amend Records: If you believe your records are incorrect, you may request a written amendment.

  • Terminate Services: You may end therapy at any time without further financial obligation beyond services already provided.

4. Contact & Complaints

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may contact Edwin E. Dilone directly. You also have the right to file a complaint with the Florida Department of Health or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.