Notice of Privacy Practices

PennWalt Therapeutics, PLLC
P.O. Box 761, Dudley, NC 28333
Phone: (919) 583-5247
Email: contactus@pennwalttherapy.com
Website: www.pennwalttherapy.com
Effective Date: November 06, 2025

Purpose of This Notice

This Notice explains how your protected health information (PHI) may be used and disclosed, and how you can access it. We are required by law to maintain the privacy and security of your PHI, provide you with this Notice, follow its terms, and notify you in the event of a breach of unsecured PHI. We may update this Notice; the current version is available on our website or by request.

General Rules About Confidentiality and Consent

• Written consent is required: We cannot disclose confidential information without your written consent.
• Voluntary and informed authorization: Any consent must be voluntary and informed—explaining what is shared, with whom, and for what purpose.
• Revocation: You may revoke your authorization at any time in writing.
• Federal and state laws: We follow applicable state law (e.g., G.S. 122C) and federal law (HIPAA) regarding confidentiality.
• Treatment coordination: Laws allow mental health providers to share relevant information to coordinate treatment, care, or habilitation activities without client consent.

Exceptions to Consent Requirements

• Suspected abuse: We must report suspected child abuse, dependent adult abuse, or elder abuse.
• Threats of harm to others: If a client threatens serious harm, we must notify law enforcement and warn the intended victim.
• Danger to self: If a client intends to harm themselves and will not cooperate to ensure safety, we may act to prevent harm.

Psychotherapy Notes and Substance Use Disorder Information

Electronic Communication & Telehealth Disclaimer

SMS Privacy Policy
PennWalt Therapeutics, PLLC respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. No mobile information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. Text messaging originator opt-in data and consent will not be shared with any third parties under any circumstances.

SMS Communication Disclaimer
By providing your telephone number and submitting a form through our website, patient portal, or other intake methods, you consent to receive SMS text messages from PennWalt Therapeutics, PLLC for purposes such as appointment reminders, scheduling updates, and other practice-related administrative communications. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply.

You may opt out of SMS communications at any time by replying STOP. For help, contact our office directly.

Important Notice About Text Messaging
SMS text messaging is not a secure or encrypted form of communication. Please do not use text messaging to communicate sensitive clinical, medical, or emergency information. For confidential matters, please use our secure patient portal or contact our office directly.

Uses and Disclosures Without Authorization

We may use or disclose your PHI for treatment, payment, and health care operations without your authorization. Examples include sharing information with other providers to coordinate care, billing a health plan, or engaging in quality improvement or compliance activities. Other uses/disclosures may occur as required or permitted by law (e.g., public health reporting, court orders, or law enforcement) and in limited cases such as emergencies or to prevent serious threats to health or safety.

Your Rights Regarding Your PHI

• Access & Copies: Inspect or obtain electronic/paper copies of your PHI within 30 days of written request.
• Amendments: Request corrections if you believe your PHI is inaccurate or incomplete.
• Restrictions & Confidential Communications: Request limits on disclosures or specify preferred contact methods; we accommodate reasonable requests.
• Accounting of Disclosures: Request a list of certain disclosures (other than for treatment, payment, or operations) for up to the past six years.
• Copy of this Notice: Receive this Notice in paper or electronic form at any time.