HIPAA-Aligned SMS Privacy Policy
Last Updated: 11/17/2025
Aspire Developmental Services (“we,” “our,” or “us”) provides SMS/text messaging as
a communication option for clients. Because we may handle health-related information,
we are committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) and all applicable privacy laws.
This SMS Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and protect
information— including any Protected Health Information (“PHI”)—when communicating
via text messaging.
1. Purpose of SMS Communications
We use SMS messages only for purposes you authorize, including:
Appointment reminders
Service updates, scheduling, and confirmations
Program or case-management messages
Time-sensitive alerts related to the services you receive
We do not send fundraising or marketing messages via SMS without your explicit
written authorization as required by HIPAA.
2. Risks of SMS Communication
SMS is not a fully secure communication method. Messages may:
Be intercepted or seen by others
Be stored on your device or in your carrier’s systems
Appear on screens or be viewed by anyone with access to your phone
By choosing to communicate via SMS, you acknowledge these risks and authorize us to
contact you using this method.
If you prefer more secure communication, we can provide alternatives (phone calls,
secure portals, encrypted email, etc.).
3. Your Consent
By providing your mobile number and opting in to receive SMS messages, you
authorize us to:
Send you SMS messages related to your services
Send messages that may contain limited PHI (e.g., appointment details, program
reminders), unless you request otherwise
You may revoke this consent at any time by contacting us directly.
Your decision to consent or revoke consent will not affect your ability to receive
services.
4. Information We Collect
When you opt in to SMS communication, we may collect:
Your mobile phone number
Message content you send or receive
Delivery status, timestamps, and interaction data
Any PHI you choose to share through text
We do not sell or rent your information.
5. How We Use Your Information
We use SMS-related information to:
Communicate and coordinate services
Respond to your messages and requests
Send reminders, alerts, and updates that you authorize
Support operations, recordkeeping, and compliance with HIPAA and other laws
We will never use SMS for purposes not permitted under HIPAA without obtaining your
written authorization.
6. Permitted Disclosures
We do not disclose your SMS information or PHI except:
1. To you, or to individuals you specifically authorize
2. To service providers who help us deliver SMS messages (they are bound by
confidentiality and business associate agreements as required by HIPAA)
3. As required by law, such as mandatory reporting or court orders
4. For permitted HIPAA purposes, including treatment, payment, or health care
operations
We do not share your information for advertising, marketing, or fundraising without your
explicit, HIPAA-compliant authorization.
7. Message Frequency and Costs
Message frequency will vary based on your program participation and preferences.
Standard message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier.
8. Data Security and Retention
Although SMS is not fully secure, we take reasonable administrative, technical, and
physical safeguards to protect your information, including:
Limiting employee access to messages
Securing systems used to send or store SMS data
Using HIPAA-compliant SMS platforms whenever possible
SMS communication records are retained only as long as necessary for service delivery,
operational needs, or legal compliance.
9. Your Rights Under HIPAA
You have the right to:
Request alternative, more secure communication methods
Opt-out of SMS at any time
Access and request copies of your records
Request restrictions on how we use or disclose your PHI
File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights were violated
To exercise these rights, use the contact information below.
10. Opt-Out Instructions
You can stop receiving SMS messages from us at any time by:
Contacting us directly
Updating your communication preferences with your case manager or program
staff
This will not affect your ability to receive services.
11. Changes to This SMS Privacy Policy
We may update this policy from time to time. When changes are made, we will notify
you through our website or SMS when appropriate. Continued use of SMS after
changes constitute your acceptance of the updated policy.
12. Contact Us
If you have questions about this policy or want to update your communication
preferences, contact:
Aspire Developmental Services
Phone: 781-593-2727
Email: info@aspiredevelopmental.org
Address: 176 Franklin St, Lynn MA 01904
You may also file a HIPAA complaint with the U.S. Department of Health & Human
Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights.