HIPAA Compliant | Privacy Policy

HIPAA Policy

NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES

THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES HOW MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION. PLEASE REVIEW IT CAREFULLY.

At Online Spine Care, we take your privacy very seriously. We understand that your health information is personal, and we are committed to keeping it confidential.

We comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets national standards for protecting your protected health information (PHI). This information includes details about your past, present, or future physical or mental health condition, the provision of healthcare to you, or payment for the services you receive.

Our Legal Duties:

We are required by law to:

Maintain the privacy of protected health information, as provided by HIPAA;
Provide this Notice to you of our privacy practices and legal duties regarding your protected health information;
Notify you following any breach of unsecured protected health information which affects you; and
Abide by the terms of this Notice until we adopt any new Notice

How We Use and Disclose Your Information

We will use and disclose your protected health information about you for treatment, payment, and health care operations. Following are examples of the types of uses and disclosures of your protected health care information that may occur. These examples are not meant to be exhaustive,but to describe the types of uses and disclosures that maybe made by our office.

Treatment

We will use and disclose your protected health information to provide, coordinate or manage your healthcare and any related services. This includes the coordination or management of your health care with a third party. For example, we would disclose your protected health information, as necessary, to a home health agency that provides care to you. We will also disclose protected health information to other physicians who may be treating you. For example, your protected health information may be provided to a physician to whom you have been referred to ensure that the physician has the necessary information to diagnose or treat you.

In addition, we may disclose your protected health information from time to time to another physician or health care provider (e.g., a specialist or laboratory)who, at the request of your physician, becomes involved in your care by providing assistance with your health care diagnosis or treatment to your physician.

Payment

Your protected health information will be used, as needed, to obtain payment for your health care services. This may include certain activities that your health insurance plan may undertake before it approves or pays for the health care services we recommend for you, such as:making a determination of eligibility or coverage for insurance benefits, reviewing services provided to you for protected health necessity, and undertaking utilization review activities. For example, obtaining approval for a hospital stay may require that your relevant protected health information be disclosed to the health plan to obtain approval for the hospital admission.

Health Care Operations

We may use or disclose, as needed,your protected health information in order to conduct certain business and operational activities. These activities include, but are not limited to, quality assessment activities, employee review activities, training of students, licensing, and conducting or arranging for other business activities.

For example, we may use a sign-in sheet at the registration desk where you will be asked to sign your name. We may also call you by name in the waiting room when your doctor is ready to see you. We may use or disclose your protected health information, as necessary, to contact you by telephone or mail to remind you of your appointment.

We will share your protected health information with third party "business associates" that perform various activities(e.g., billing, transcription services) for the practice. Whenever an arrangement between our office and a business associate involves the use or disclosure of your protected health information, we will have a written contract that contains terms that will protect the privacy of your protected health information.

We may use or disclose your protected health information,as necessary, to provide you with information about treatment alternatives or other health-related benefits and services that may be of interest to you. We may also use and disclose your protected health information for other marketing activities. For example, your name and address may be used to send you a newsletter about our practice and the services we offer. We may also send you information about products or services that we believe may be beneficial to you. You may contact us to request that these materials not be sent to you.

Uses and Disclosures Based On Your Written Authorization

Other uses and disclosures of your protected health information will be made only with your authorization,unless otherwise permitted or required by law as described below.

You may give us written authorization to use your protected health information or to disclose it to anyone for any purpose. If you give us an authorization, you may revoke it in writing at any time. Your revocation will not affect any use or disclosures permitted by your authorization while it was in effect. Without your written authorization, we will not disclose your health care information except as described in this notice.

Others Involved in Your Health Care

Unless you object, we may disclose to a member of your family, a relative, a close friend or any other person you identify, your protected health information that directly relates to that person's involvement in your health care. If you are unable to agree or object to such a disclosure, we may disclose such information as necessary if we determine that it is in your best interest based on our professional judgment. We may use or disclose protected health information to notify or assist in notifying a family member, personal representative or any other person that is responsible for your care of your location, general condition or death.

Marketing

We may use your protected health information to contact you with information about treatment alternatives that may be of interest to you. We may disclose your protected health information to a business associate to assist us in these activities. Unless the information is provided to you by a general newsletter or in person or is for products or services of nominal value, you may opt out of receiving further such information by telling us using the contact information listed at the end of this notice.

Research; Death; Organ Donation

We may use or disclose your protected health information for research purposes in limited circumstances. We may disclose the protected health information of a deceased person to a coroner, protected health examiner, funeral director or organ procurement organization for certain purposes.

Public Health and Safety

We may disclose your protected health information to the extent necessary to avert a serious and imminent threat to your health or safety, or the health or safety of others. We may disclose your protected health information to a government agency authorized to oversee the health care system or government programs or its contractors, and to public health authorities for public health purposes.

Health Oversight

We may disclose protected health information to a health oversight agency for activities authorized by law, such as audits, investigations and inspections. Oversight agencies seeking this information include government agencies that oversee the health care system, government benefit programs, other government regulatory programs and civil rights laws.

Abuse or Neglect

We may disclose your protected health information to a public health authority that is authorized by law to receive reports of child abuse or neglect. In addition, we may disclose your protected health information if we believe that you have been a victim of abuse, neglect or domestic violence to the governmental entity or agency authorized to receive such information. In this case, the disclosure will be made consistent with the requirements of applicable federal and state laws.

Food and Drug Administration

We may disclose your protected health information to a person or company required by the Food and Drug Administration to report adverse events, product defects or problems, biologic product deviations; to track products; to enable product recalls; to make repairs or replacements; or to conduct post marketing surveillance, as required.

Criminal Activity

Consistent with applicable federal and state laws, we may disclose your protected health information, if we believe that the use or disclosure is necessary to prevent or lessen a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of a person or the public. We may also disclose protected health information if it is necessary for law enforcement authorities to identify or apprehend an individual.

Required by Law

We may use or disclose your protected health information when we are required to do so by law. For example, we must disclose your protected health information to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services upon request for purposes of determining whether we are in compliance with federal privacy laws. We may disclose your protected health information when authorized by workers' compensation or similar laws.

Process and Proceedings

We may disclose your protected health information in response to a court or administrative order, subpoena, discovery request or other lawful process,under certain circumstances. Under limited circumstances,such as a court order, warrant or grand jury subpoena, wemay disclose your protected health information to law enforcement officials.

Law Enforcement

We may disclose limited information to a law enforcement official concerning the protected health information of a suspect, fugitive, material witness, crime victim or missing person. We may disclose the protected health information of an inmate or other person in lawful custody to a law enforcement official or correctional institution under certain circumstances. We may disclose protected health information where necessary to assist law enforcement officials to capture an individual who has admitted to participation in a crime or has escaped from lawful custody.

Your Rights Regarding Your PHI

You have several rights regarding your PHI, including

Right to Access: You have the right to access your medical records electronically or in writing (if readily available). We may charge a reasonable fee for copying and mailing your records.
Right to Amend: You have the right to request an amendment to your PHI if you believe it is inaccurate or incomplete.
Right to an Accounting of Disclosures: You have the right to request a list of the disclosures we have made of your PHI for the past six years, except for disclosures for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations. If you ask for this information from us more than once every twelve months, we may charge you a fee.
Right to Request Restrictions: You have the right to request restrictions on how we use and disclose your PHI for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations. We are not obligated to agree to your request, but we will consider it.
Right to Request Confidential Communications: You can request that we communicate with you about your PHI in a specific way (e.g., by mail to a certain address).

Breach Notification:

In the case of a breach of unsecured PHI, you have the right to be notified, as provided by law. If you have given us a current email address, we may use it to communicate information related to the breach. In some circumstances our Business Associate may provide the notification. We may also provide notification by other methods as appropriate.

Copy of Notice:

You have the right to a copy of this notice in paper form, even if you agreed to receive notice electronically. You may ask us for a copy at any time.

Complaints:

If you feel that your privacy protections have been violated by our office, you have the right to file a complaint with the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Civil Rights by sending a letter to 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20201 calling (877) 696-6775, or visiting www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/complaints/.

Our Right to Change This Notice:

We reserve the right to change the terms of the privacy practices, as described in this Notice, at any time. We reserve the right to apply these changes to any protected health information which we already have, as well as to protected health information we receive in the future. Before we make any change in the privacy practices described in this Notice, we will adopt a new Notice that includes the change and its effective date. The new Notice will be available in our office and on our website.

For More Information/Whom to Contact:

If you have any questions about HIPAA or your privacy rights, please contact our Privacy Officer at 314-557-3472 or dr.amit@onlinespinecare.com You can also find a complete copy of our Notice of Privacy Practices on our website https://www.onlinespinecare.com/privacy-and-legal/.

For more information about this Notice;
For more information about our privacy policies;
To exercise any of the patient rights, as listed on this Notice; or
To request a copy of our current Notice of Privacy Practices.

We appreciate your trust in us. We are committed to providing you with quality healthcare while protecting your privacy.

Terms Of Use

The terms of use for SPINE center outline the conditions for accessing and using our website and services. By using our site, you agree to comply with these terms, which include guidelines on content usage, user conduct, and the protection of your personal information, ensuring a safe and respectful online environment.

SMS Texting Program - Privacy Policy

At S.P.I.N.E. Center, we are committed to maintaining the privacy and security of our patients’ personal information. This Privacy Notice outlines our practices and your choices regarding the use of your information for SMS (Short Message Service) communications.

Opt-In: By providing your mobile number, you are opting in to receive SMS communications from Online Spine care. These messages may include appointment reminders, health tips, prescription notifications, and other relevant updates, for a list of our services see here Services – Online Spine care. Your mobile number will only be used for healthcare-related communications and will not be shared with third parties for their marketing purposes.

Opt-Out: You may opt-out of receiving SMS communications at any time. To opt-out, reply ‘STOP’ to any message you receive from us or contact our office directly. Once you opt-out, you will no longer receive SMS communications from us. Please note that opting out will not affect other forms of communication such as emails or phone calls.

Fees: While Online Spine care does not charge for SMS communications, standard message and data rates may apply depending on your wireless carrier and plan. Privacy: We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your information. All SMS communications are compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protects your health information from unauthorized use or disclosure.

Updates: We may change this Privacy Notice from time to time. Any changes will be effective immediately upon posting of the revised notice on our website.

By opting in to our SMS communications, you acknowledge and agree to the practices outlined in this Privacy Notice. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 314-557-3472.

Your privacy is important to us, and we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service while respecting and protecting your personal information.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the Fair Price Policy, need assistance with your bill, or want to learn more about payment options, please contact:

Phone: +1 (314) 557-3472
Email: billing@onlinespinecare.com
Address: 16216 Baxter Road, Suite 110, Chesterfield, MO 63017

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we are dedicated to ensuring that our patients receive the best care possible while maintaining transparency and fairness in all aspects of their treatment, including pricing.

Accessibility

SPINE center is dedicated to ensuring accessibility for all patients, with facilities designed to accommodate diverse needs and enhance ease of access. We strive to provide an inclusive environment where every individual can receive exceptional spine care without barriers.

Notice of Privacy

Notice of Privacy Practices – S.P.I.N.E. Center

Effective Date: September 9, 2024

THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES HOW MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION. PLEASE REVIEW IT CAREFULLY.

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we are dedicated to protecting your medical information. This document outlines how we manage your protected health information (PHI) in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Our Commitment to Privacy

We are legally required to:

Ensure your medical information remains confidential.
Provide this Notice explaining our privacy practices and your rights.
Abide by the terms of this Notice.
Notify you of any breach of unsecured PHI that may affect you.

How We May Use and Disclose Your Medical Information

Your medical information may be used or disclosed without your prior authorization for the following purposes:

Treatment: We will use your PHI to provide and manage your healthcare. This includes sharing your information with healthcare providers involved in your care, such as specialists or labs.
Payment:Your information may be disclosed to obtain payment for services rendered. This includes verifying coverage with your insurance provider and processing claims.
Healthcare Operations:We use your PHI for internal operations, such as quality assessments, employee evaluations, training, and compliance audits. For example, we may use your information to review the quality of care provided by our staff.
Appointment Reminders and Follow-ups:We may contact you for appointment reminders or follow-up care using the contact details you provided.
Treatment Alternatives and Health-Related Services:We may inform you about treatments or services that could be beneficial to your health.
Individuals Involved in Your Care:We may share relevant information with individuals involved in your care, such as family members, unless you request otherwise.

Additional Permitted Uses and Disclosures Without Your Authorization

As Required by Law: We will disclose your PHI when mandated by federal, state, or local law.
Public Health Activities: We may report your PHI to public health authorities to prevent or control disease or report abuse, neglect, or adverse reactions to medications.
Health Oversight: Your PHI may be used for audits, inspections, or investigations by oversight agencies.
Legal Proceedings: We may disclose your PHI in response to a court order, subpoena, or other legal processes.
Law Enforcement: Information may be shared with law enforcement officials if required.
Organ Donation: If you are an organ donor, we may disclose necessary information to facilitate the donation.
Research and National Security: In certain cases, your PHI may be used for research or disclosed to federal officials for national security.

SMS – Privacy Policy

Opt-In: By providing your mobile number, you are opting in to receive SMS communications from S.P.I.N.E. Center. These messages may include appointment reminders, health tips, prescription notifications, and other relevant updates. Your mobile number will only be used for healthcare-related communications and will not be shared with third parties for their marketing purposes.

Opt-Out: You may opt-out of receiving SMS communications at any time. To opt-out, reply ‘STOP’ to any message you receive from us or contact our office directly. Once you opt-out, you will no longer receive SMS communications from us. Please note that opting out will not affect other forms of communication such as emails or phone calls.

Fees: While S.P.I.N.E. Center does not charge for SMS communications, standard message and data rates may apply depending on your wireless carrier and plan.

Privacy: We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your information. All SMS communications are compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protects your health information from unauthorized use or disclosure.

By opting in to our SMS communications, you acknowledge and agree to the practices outlined in this Privacy Notice. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 314-557-3472.

Your privacy is important to us, and we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service while respecting and protecting your personal information.

Your Rights Regarding Your Medical Information

Right to Access: You can request access to your medical records. We may charge a reasonable fee for copying and mailing.
Right to Amend: If you believe the information we have about you is incorrect, you may request an amendment.
Right to an Accounting of Disclosures: You may request a list of the instances in which your information has been disclosed, except for those related to treatment, payment, or operations.
Right to Request Restrictions: You can request restrictions on how your information is used or disclosed. We are not required to comply with all requests but will consider them.
Right to Request Confidential Communications: You can ask us to communicate with you in specific ways (e.g., to a particular address).
Right to a Copy of This Notice: You have the right to request a paper copy of this Notice at any time.

Breach Notification

In the event of a breach of your unsecured PHI, we will notify you in accordance with applicable law. We may notify you via email, or other appropriate methods, depending on your preferences.

Sunshine Act Compliance

The S.P.I.N.E. Center complies with the Physician Payments Sunshine Act (Section 6002 of the Affordable Care Act), which requires transparency regarding financial relationships between healthcare providers and pharmaceutical manufacturers or medical device companies. We disclose any payments or gifts received from these entities, which may include speaking fees, meals, travel, or educational materials, as mandated by law. This information is publicly available on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) website.

For more information on the Sunshine Act, please visit CMS.gov.

Fair Price Policy

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we are committed to transparent and fair pricing for all medical services provided. Our goal is to ensure that patients fully understand the costs associated with their care. Prior to any non-emergency procedures, patients will be given an estimate of the charges, including any expected out-of-pocket expenses. If you have insurance, our staff will work with your provider to confirm coverage and determine your financial responsibility.

Patients experiencing financial hardship may apply for payment plans or other financial assistance. We are dedicated to making healthcare accessible and will discuss all available options with you.

For additional details, please contact our Billing Department at 314-557-3472.

Changes to This Notice

We reserve the right to amend this Notice at any time. The revised Notice will be posted on our website and available in our office.

Complaints

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, or if you have questions regarding the Sunshine Act or Fair Price Policy, you may file a complaint or contact our Privacy Officer at:

Phone: 314-557-3472
Email: dr.amit@onlinespinecare.com
Address: 16216 Baxter Road, Suite 110, Chesterfield, MO 63017

Complaints can also be filed with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

For more information, please visit our website at onlinespinecare.com/privacy-and-legal.

Fair Price Policy: Ensuring Transparency and Affordability for Our Patients

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we are committed to providing high-quality medical care that is transparent, accessible, and affordable. Our Fair Price Policy ensures that our patients fully understand the costs of their healthcare services and are treated fairly in terms of pricing. We believe that medical care should never be a mystery, especially when it comes to the financial aspect of your treatment.

What is the Fair Price Policy?

The Fair Price Policy is designed to promote transparency by ensuring that patients know what they can expect to pay for healthcare services before receiving them. We provide clear and upfront pricing information for the medical procedures and services we offer, helping you make informed financial decisions regarding your healthcare.

Our Fair Price Policy covers all aspects of the financial process, from the initial cost estimate to payment options and financial assistance programs. We aim to ensure that our services are competitively priced and reflect the value of the specialized care we provide.

What to Expect Under the Fair Price Policy?

Transparent Pricing

Before undergoing any non-emergency treatment at the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we will provide you with a detailed estimate of the costs. This estimate will include:
- The total cost of the procedure or service.
- Any expected out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance.
- Information on what your insurance will cover, based on your specific plan and benefits.
Our billing staff will work closely with your insurance provider to ensure that you have a clear understanding of your coverage. If you are uninsured, we will provide you with a breakdown of the costs and payment options.
Upfront Communication

We believe that open communication is key to avoiding any surprises when it comes to your medical bills. Our team will take the time to discuss your treatment options and any related costs, allowing you to plan for your healthcare expenses accordingly.

We also encourage our patients to ask questions about their bills or estimates at any time. We are here to help you navigate the financial aspects of your care and ensure that you fully understand all the associated costs.
Price Comparisons

For elective or non-emergency procedures, we provide price comparison information. This allows you to see how our prices compare with other local healthcare providers, giving you the confidence that you are receiving high-quality care at a fair and competitive rate.

Financial Assistance and Payment Options

We understand that medical care can be expensive, and we are committed to helping patients who may be facing financial challenges. Our Fair Price Policy includes the following options for financial assistance:

Payment Plans

We offer flexible payment plans to help you manage the cost of your care. These plans allow you to pay for your treatment over time, making it easier to afford the care you need without financial strain.
Financial Hardship Assistance

If you are experiencing financial hardship, you may qualify for reduced fees or financial aid. Our staff will work with you to review your financial situation and determine whether you are eligible for assistance. This includes:
- Reduced or discounted fees based on your income and financial circumstances.
- Guidance on how to apply for public or private insurance programs that may help cover your medical expenses.
Uninsured Patient Discounts

We provide discounts for uninsured patients to ensure that everyone has access to affordable care, regardless of their insurance status. These discounts are applied directly to your total bill, and our staff will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your financial situation.

Understanding Your Bill

Once you have received treatment, we will send you a clear and itemized bill, detailing the services provided and the associated costs. This bill will include:

The total amount due.
Payments made by your insurance provider.
Any remaining balance you are responsible for.

If you have any questions about your bill, our billing specialists are available to explain each charge and help you understand how your insurance coverage was applied.

Fair and Ethical Practices

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we adhere to the highest standards of ethical billing practices. We ensure that our pricing is:

Fair: Reflecting the value of our services and in line with the local and national standards for specialized medical care.

Transparent: We provide you with detailed pricing information in advance, so there are no hidden costs.

Competitive: Our prices are competitive with other healthcare providers, and we offer options for financial assistance to make care more affordable.

How to Request a Price Estimate

To request a price estimate for any service or procedure, please contact our Billing Department at +1 (314) 557-3472. We will provide you with an estimate based on your insurance coverage or, if you are uninsured, the full cost of the service along with any applicable discounts or payment options.

You can also visit our website S.P.I.N.E. Center Fair Price Policy for more information about our pricing policies, financial assistance programs, and payment plans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if I can’t afford my medical bill?

If you are facing financial difficulties, we encourage you to contact our Billing Department as soon as possible. We offer flexible payment plans and financial assistance programs to help make your care more affordable.
Can I get an estimate before I receive treatment?

Yes! For any non-emergency procedures, we will provide you with a cost estimate before your treatment. This includes a breakdown of your expected out-of-pocket costs and any coverage provided by your insurance.
How do you determine pricing for your services?

Our prices are determined based on the complexity of the procedure, the cost of specialized care, and local and national standards for similar services. We strive to provide competitive and fair pricing that reflects the high-quality care we offer.
Do you offer discounts for uninsured patients?

Yes, we offer discounts for patients who do not have insurance coverage. Our Billing Department will work with you to determine the best payment option based on your financial situation.
How do I apply for financial assistance?

You can apply for financial assistance by contacting our Billing Department at +1 (314) 557-3472. We will help you determine whether you qualify for reduced fees or payment plans based on your financial circumstances.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the Fair Price Policy, need assistance with your bill, or want to learn more about payment options, please contact:

Phone: +1 (314) 557-3472
Email: billing@onlinespinecare.com
Address: 16216 Baxter Road, Suite 110, Chesterfield, MO 63017

Physician Payments Sunshine Act: What Patients Need to Know

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we believe in full transparency regarding the relationships between healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. To help patients understand how these relationships may impact their care, we comply with the Physician Payments Sunshine Act (commonly referred to as the Sunshine Act), a law aimed at increasing the visibility of financial transactions in the healthcare industry.

What is the Physician Payments Sunshine Act?

The Physician Payments Sunshine Act was enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010 and is designed to promote transparency between healthcare providers (such as doctors, dentists, and teaching hospitals) and manufacturers of drugs, medical devices, and biologicals. Specifically, the law requires these manufacturers to report any payments or other transfers of value they make to healthcare providers, as well as any ownership interests that providers or their immediate family members may have in these companies.

The goal of the Sunshine Act is to allow patients to see the financial relationships their healthcare providers may have with companies that manufacture drugs or medical devices used in their care.

What Types of Payments Are Reported?

Under the Sunshine Act, manufacturers must report a wide range of payments and other transfers of value made to healthcare providers. These include:

Consulting Fees: Payments for consulting services provided by healthcare professionals.
Honoraria: Payments made for speaking at conferences or participating in educational activities.
Travel and Lodging: Costs associated with travel and accommodations provided to healthcare providers for attending conferences or meetings.
Meals: Payments for meals provided during meetings or events.
Educational Materials: Items or resources given to healthcare professionals that are intended to educate about medical products or treatments.
Research Funding: Payments related to conducting clinical trials or research projects.
Gifts: Non-monetary items such as promotional gifts or products.
Ownership and Investment Interests: Information about any financial interest healthcare providers or their immediate family may have in the manufacturer.

This information is then made available to the public by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which maintains an online database called Open Payments.

Why is the Sunshine Act Important for Patients?

The Sunshine Act is crucial because it helps ensure that you, as a patient, are informed about the financial relationships between your healthcare providers and manufacturers of drugs and medical devices. While financial relationships between doctors and manufacturers are often intended to improve patient care by advancing medical research or education, there can be concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For example, if a physician has a financial relationship with a particular pharmaceutical company, it is important for patients to understand whether that relationship may influence the types of treatments or medications that are recommended.

By providing transparency, the Sunshine Act empowers patients to:

Ask informed questions about the treatments and medications being prescribed.
Understand potential conflicts of interest between their healthcare providers and manufacturers.
Make more informed healthcare decisions based on the available information

How Can You Access This Information?

All reported financial relationships and payments are made available to the public through the Open Payments program, a searchable database maintained by the CMS. This database allows patients to search for their healthcare providers and view any payments or transfers of value they may have received from manufacturers.

You can access the Open Payments database at https://openpaymentsdata.cms.gov.

How the S.P.I.N.E. Center Ensures Compliance?

At the S.P.I.N.E. Center, we take compliance with the Sunshine Act seriously. We fully disclose any financial relationships that our physicians and staff may have with manufacturers of drugs or medical devices, ensuring that our patients have access to this information.

We are committed to providing our patients with transparent and high-quality care. If you have any questions or concerns about the Sunshine Act or how it may affect your care, please feel free to speak with your physician or contact our Privacy Officer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does the Sunshine Act benefit me as a patient?

The Sunshine Act provides patients with greater transparency about the financial relationships between their healthcare providers and pharmaceutical or medical device companies. This allows you to ask informed questions and feel more confident in your healthcare decisions.
Should I be concerned if my doctor receives payments from a pharmaceutical company?

Not necessarily. Many doctors work with manufacturers to improve medical treatments, conduct research, and advance healthcare education. However, the Sunshine Act allows you to be aware of these relationships and make sure they are not influencing your care inappropriately.
Where can I find out if my doctor has received payments from drug or device companies?

You can search for your doctor’s financial relationships on the Open Payments database, available at https://openpaymentsdata.cms.gov.
What kinds of payments are reported under the Sunshine Act?

Payments such as consulting fees, honoraria, travel, meals, and research funding are all reportable. Additionally, any ownership interests or investment stakes that healthcare providers hold in these companies are also reported.
How often is this information updated?

The data in the Open Payments system is updated annually by the CMS.

Contact Us for More Information

If you have further questions about the Sunshine Act, or if you would like to discuss any financial relationships that our physicians may have with drug or medical device companies, please contact:

Phone: +1 (314) 557-3472
Email: dr.amit@onlinespinecare.com
Address: 16216 Baxter Road, Suite 110, Chesterfield, MO 63017

We are committed to transparency and patient-centered care at the S.P.I.N.E. Center.

Privacy And Legal

HIPAA Policy

Terms Of Use

SMS Privacy Policy

Accessibility

Notice Of Privacy

Fair Price Policy

Sunshine Act

HIPAA Policy

NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES

Our Legal Duties:

How We Use and Disclose Your Information

Treatment

Payment

Health Care Operations

Uses and Disclosures Based On Your Written Authorization

Others Involved in Your Health Care

Marketing

Research; Death; Organ Donation

Public Health and Safety

Health Oversight

Abuse or Neglect

Food and Drug Administration

Criminal Activity

Required by Law

Process and Proceedings

Law Enforcement

Your Rights Regarding Your PHI

Breach Notification:

Copy of Notice:

Complaints:

Our Right to Change This Notice:

For More Information/Whom to Contact:

We appreciate your trust in us. We are committed to providing you with quality healthcare while protecting your privacy.

Terms Of Use

SMS Texting Program - Privacy Policy

Contact Us

Accessibility

Notice of Privacy

Notice of Privacy Practices – S.P.I.N.E. Center

Effective Date: September 9, 2024

Our Commitment to Privacy

How We May Use and Disclose Your Medical Information

Additional Permitted Uses and Disclosures Without Your Authorization

SMS – Privacy Policy

Your Rights Regarding Your Medical Information

Breach Notification

Sunshine Act Compliance

Fair Price Policy

Changes to This Notice

Complaints

Fair Price Policy: Ensuring Transparency and Affordability for Our Patients

What is the Fair Price Policy?

What to Expect Under the Fair Price Policy?

Transparent Pricing

Upfront Communication

Price Comparisons

Financial Assistance and Payment Options

Payment Plans

Financial Hardship Assistance

Uninsured Patient Discounts

Understanding Your Bill

Fair and Ethical Practices

How to Request a Price Estimate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if I can’t afford my medical bill?

Can I get an estimate before I receive treatment?

How do you determine pricing for your services?

Do you offer discounts for uninsured patients?

How do I apply for financial assistance?

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Physician Payments Sunshine Act: What Patients Need to Know

What is the Physician Payments Sunshine Act?

What Types of Payments Are Reported?

Why is the Sunshine Act Important for Patients?

How Can You Access This Information?

How the S.P.I.N.E. Center Ensures Compliance?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does the Sunshine Act benefit me as a patient?

Should I be concerned if my doctor receives payments from a pharmaceutical company?