Privacy Policy & Communication Consent

Effective Date: April 9, 2026  |  Last Updated: April 9, 2026

1. Introduction

Kern Surgical Associates ("we," "our," or "the Practice") is committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information in compliance with applicable federal and California laws, including HIPAA, TCPA, and A2P 10DLC messaging requirements.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following information through website forms or communication:

• Name
• Phone number
• Email address
• Mailing address
• Appointment or service-related information
• Communication preferences

We do not request highly sensitive medical information through this website unless explicitly indicated.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information solely for healthcare-related and administrative purposes, including:

• Appointment scheduling and reminders
• Care coordination and follow-up communication
• Administrative and operational support
• Patient service and communication

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information for marketing purposes.

4. SMS / Text Messaging Policy

Opt-In Consent

Patients may opt in to receive SMS messages by submitting a website form and explicitly checking an SMS consent checkbox.

• The checkbox is not pre-selected
• Consent is voluntary and not required to receive care

Types of Messages

If you opt in, you may receive messages related to:

• Appointment scheduling and reminders
• Pre-operative and post-operative instructions
• Care coordination and administrative updates

We do not send marketing or promotional messages via SMS.

Message Frequency

Message frequency varies based on patient needs and interaction.

Message & Data Rates

Standard message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier.

Opt-Out

You may opt out at any time by replying:

Help

For assistance, reply HELP or contact our office:

Mobile Data Use

Your mobile number and SMS consent data:

• Will not be sold or shared with third parties for marketing purposes
• Will only be used for healthcare-related communication

Sample Opt-In Confirmation Message

5. Data Security

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information in alignment with HIPAA standards. However, electronic communication methods such as SMS and email may not be fully secure.

6. HIPAA Notice

SMS messaging is not a fully secure communication method. Patients are advised not to transmit highly sensitive medical information via text messaging. For full details on how protected health information is handled, please refer to our Notice of Privacy Practices.

7. California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)

If you are a California resident, you may request:

• Access to your personal information
• Correction of inaccurate information
• Deletion of your personal data

We do not sell personal information. To make a request, contact: office@kernsurgeon.com

8. Cookies & Website Use

This website may use cookies or similar technologies to enhance functionality and user experience. By using this website, you consent to this use.

9. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.

10. Contact Information