SMS Terms of Service
Last Updated: 11/17/2025
These SMS Terms of Service (“Terms”) describe the rules and conditions under which
Aspire Developmental Services (“we,” “our,” or “us”) provides SMS/text messaging
services to clients (“you”). By opting in to receive SMS messages from us, you agree to
these Terms.
These Terms work together with our SMS Privacy Policy and our HIPAA Notice of
Privacy Practices. If there is a conflict, HIPAA requirements will control.
1. Description of SMS Services
Our SMS program provides service-related messages, including:
Appointment reminders and scheduling updates
Program or case-management communications
Time-sensitive alerts
Resource information or instructions related to your services
We do not send unwanted marketing, fundraising, or promotional messages without
your express written authorization as required by HIPAA.
Message frequency varies based on your interactions and program needs.
2. Eligibility to Participate
By opting in, you confirm that:
You are the owner or authorized user of the mobile number provided
You are at least 18 years old, or you have the consent of a parent/guardian if
under 18
You understand that SMS is not a fully secure communication method
3. Your Consent to Receive Messages
By providing your mobile number and opting in:
You consent to receive SMS messages from us
You authorize us to send messages that may contain limited PHI, unless you
request otherwise
You acknowledge and accept the risks associated with SMS (e.g., messages
could be seen by others with access to your phone)
Your consent is voluntary. Declining or withdrawing consent will not affect your access
to our services.
4. Opt-Out
You may stop receiving SMS messages at any time by contacting us directly.
After opting out, you may still receive non-SMS communications (phone calls, mail,
secure email, etc.).
If you want to re-enroll, sign a new consent form, or notify staff.
5. Charges and Carriers
Standard message and data rates may apply, depending on your mobile carrier
You are responsible for any fees associated with receiving text messages
Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages
6. Confidentiality and Security
We take reasonable steps to protect your information under HIPAA and other privacy
laws, including limiting internal access and using HIPAA-compliant service providers
when possible.
However, because SMS is inherently insecure, we cannot guarantee:
Encryption of all messages
Confidentiality if others access your device
Secure delivery through carriers
If you prefer more secure communication, you may request alternatives.
7. Appropriate Use of SMS
By using our SMS services, you agree not to:
Send unlawful, threatening, abusive, or harmful content
Send messages containing private or sensitive information beyond what is
necessary
Use SMS for emergencies (please call 911 or appropriate emergency services)
8. Service Availability and Limitations
SMS services may be affected by:
Network outages
Carrier delays or failures
Device limitations
Technical issues
We do not guarantee uninterrupted or error-free delivery.
9. Your Responsibilities
You agree to:
Keep your mobile number up to date
Notify us promptly if your phone is lost, stolen, or changed
Protect your device with a passcode if possible
Contact us directly for urgent or sensitive matters instead of SMS
10. Modifications to These Terms
We may update or modify these Terms at any time. If we make significant changes, we
will notify you through our website, SMS, or other communication methods.
Your continued use of SMS services after changes are made constitutes acceptance of
the updated Terms.
11. Disclaimer
SMS communications are provided “as is” without warranties of any kind. We are not
responsible for:
Undelivered or delayed messages
Errors or interruptions in service
Unauthorized access to messages on your device
These Terms do not limit your rights under HIPAA.
12. Contact Information
If you have questions, need help, 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 privacy complaint with the U.S. Department of Health & Human
Services Office for Civil Rights.