Southport Dermatology
Privacy Policy
Effective Date: April 15, 2026
Southport Dermatology (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy and safeguarding your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you interact with our website and services.
Information We Collect
We may collect personal information such as your name, email address, phone number, date of birth, and, when applicable, insurance details. If you become a patient, we also collect health information relevant to your care, including medical history, skin conditions, treatment details, and clinical photographs when appropriate. In addition, our website may automatically collect basic technical data such as your IP address, browser type, and pages visited to help us improve our website and user experience.
How We Use Your Information
We use your information to schedule and manage appointments, provide dermatologic care and treatment, communicate with you regarding appointments or inquiries, process payments, and improve our services. We may also use your information to comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
HIPAA & Medical Privacy
We comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and your medical information is protected accordingly. Your information is used or disclosed only for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations, when required by law, or with your authorization when necessary. A full Notice of Privacy Practices will be provided at your first visit.
Website Forms & Communication
If you submit information through our website, including waitlists, contact forms, or email, please note that these methods may not always be fully secure. We recommend that you do not include sensitive medical information unless specifically instructed. For medical concerns, we encourage you to schedule an appointment.
Telehealth
If you participate in telehealth services, we use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms when possible. You are responsible for choosing a private setting for your visit, and you acknowledge that there are inherent risks associated with electronic communication.
Sharing of Information
We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information with trusted third parties as needed to provide care and operate our practice, including laboratories, pharmacies, pathology services, billing and payment processors, and technology providers such as electronic medical record and scheduling systems. We may also disclose information when required by law. All partners are expected to maintain appropriate privacy protections.
Data Security
We implement reasonable safeguards to protect your information, including secure systems, access controls, and staff training on privacy practices. However, no system can be guaranteed to be completely secure.
Cookies & Tracking
Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. You can adjust your browser settings to disable cookies if you prefer.
Your Rights
You have the right to access your medical records, request corrections, request restrictions on certain disclosures, and receive a copy of your information. Requests can be made by contacting us directly.
Third Party Services
Our website may link to third-party platforms such as scheduling or payment systems. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external services.
Children’s Privacy
We provide care for minors with appropriate parental or guardian consent and do not knowingly collect information from children without proper authorization.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.