Privacy Policy & Communication Terms
We are committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and security of your personal and protected health information (PHI). This policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information, as well as how we communicate with you, including through electronic and SMS communications.
Effective: 04/22/26
Communication Methods
Our primary mode of communication is through the secure patient portal integrated with our Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system. This platform is designed to protect your health information and allows you to:
Access educational materials.
Communicate securely with your provider.
Manage appointments and documentation.
Patients may also contact our office via telephone or text messaging through a confidential practice line for administrative purposes.
Telephone Accessibility
Our office is available during regular business hours. Messages left during this time will typically be returned within 48 business hours. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Electronic communications should not be used for urgent or emergency concerns.
Electronic Communication and Privacy Risks
While we offer email and text messaging for convenience, these methods are not fully secure. By choosing to communicate electronically, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks, including:
Potential interception by unauthorized third parties.
Possible alteration or loss of message content.
Persistence of messages in backups even after deletion.
Electronic communication should be used only for limited, non-sensitive purposes such as appointment scheduling, confirmations, or general administrative inquiries. Sensitive clinical or therapeutic information should be shared only through secure channels such as the patient portal or during sessions.
APA Clinic makes reasonable efforts to protect your information; however, we cannot guarantee the confidentiality of communications transmitted via standard email or text messaging.
Email and SMS Communication Consent
By providing your contact information and opting in, you consent to receive communications from APA Clinic via email and/or SMS. These communications may include: i) Appointment reminders and updates ii) Follow-up communications related to care iii) Billing or account-related inquiries iv) General health education or administrative notifications
APA Clinic does not charge for these communications; however, standard message and data rates may apply based on your mobile carrier and service plan.
You may withdraw your consent to receive electronic communications at any time by notifying our office in writing or by following the opt-out instructions included in SMS messages. Continued use of email or text communication after initial consent indicates ongoing acceptance of these terms.
SMS Communications and Privacy
Phone numbers collected as part of the SMS consent process are used solely for communication related to your care and services. This information will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
SMS communications are intended for limited use and may include appointment reminders, follow-ups, and billing notifications. Message frequency may vary depending on your interactions with our practice. Standard message and data rates may apply. Charges are determined by your wireless carrier and may vary based on your plan and location.
You confirm that you are the owner or authorized user of the wireless device and mobile phone number(s) used to receive these services, and that you have the authority to approve any applicable charges.
APA Clinic is not responsible for delays or failures in the delivery of SMS messages, as transmission depends on your mobile carrier and device capabilities. SMS services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis.
You may opt in to receive SMS messages through verbal consent, online forms, or written documentation. You may opt out at any time by replying “STOP” to any message or by contacting our office directly. For assistance, you may reply “HELP” or reach out to our office.
We reserve the right to disclose information when necessary to comply with applicable laws, regulations, or governmental requests, to mitigate potential liability, or to protect our rights, property, and safety. By completing online forms on apaclinic.com or otherwise providing information in connection with our services, you agree that all information submitted is accurate, complete, and truthful.
Telepsychiatry & Telemedicine
In accordance with North Carolina law, services provided through electronic means—including telephone, internet-based platforms, email, and other digital communication—may be considered telemedicine.
When telemedicine is used: i) You have the right to accept or decline telemedicine services at any time without affecting your access to care. ii) The same confidentiality protections that apply to in-person services also apply to telemedicine. iii) You may request access to records of telemedicine interactions, subject to applicable fees. iv) Your identifiable health information will not be disclosed without your consent except as permitted or required by law.
Telemedicine offers benefits such as increased access to care, improved continuity, and convenience. However, it may also have limitations, including reduced ability to observe certain physical or nonverbal clinical indicators and potential technical challenges.
Social Media and Professional Boundaries
To protect your privacy and maintain professional boundaries, Advanced Psychiatric Associates does not accept friend or contact requests from current or former patients on social media platforms. Engaging in such connections may compromise confidentiality and the integrity of the therapeutic relationship. If you have questions about this policy, please discuss them directly with your provider.
Protection and Use of Health Information (HIPAA Notice Summary) APA Clinic complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and applicable federal and state laws governing the protection of your health information.
Your protected health information (PHI) may be used or disclosed for purposes including:
Treatment, coordination, and management of your care
Payment for services rendered
Healthcare operations, such as quality improvement and administrative activities
We implement administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
You have rights regarding your health information, including:
The right to access and obtain copies of your records
The right to request corrections to your records
The right to request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures
The right to request confidential communications
A full Notice of Privacy Practices is available upon request.
Data Security and Retention
We take reasonable steps to secure your personal and health information; however, no method of electronic transmission or storage is completely secure. Information may be retained in accordance with legal, regulatory, and clinical recordkeeping requirements. Patients are encouraged to take precautions on their end, including safeguarding their devices and deleting sensitive messages when appropriate.
Updates to This Policy
Advanced Psychiatric Associates (APA Clinic) reserves the right to update or modify this Privacy Policy and Communication Terms at any time without notice. Unless otherwise indicated, any changes or revisions to these terms will apply immediately upon posting to apaclinic.com. Any changes will be posted on this page with the updated effective date.
About Advanced Psychiatric Associates
At Advanced Psychiatric Associates in Winston-Salem & Greensboro, NC. we specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on individualized treatment. Our team of experienced mental health professionals is dedicated to supporting your journey towards mental wellness through a range of services including counseling, medication management, and innovative therapies. We're committed to creating a compassionate and understanding environment, ensuring every patient feels heard and valued. Discover a path to better mental health with us.
Contact Details:
Winston Salem:
8025 North Point Boulevard, Suite 217, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
Greensboro:
109 Muirs Chapel Road, Suite 123, Greensboro, NC 27410
Phone: (336) 331-0978
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HOURS :
Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed
Payments Accepted :