Introduction
Ilyas K. Colombowala, MD, FACC, FHRS ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy of our patients and website visitors. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or engage with our medical practice. Please read this policy carefully. By using our website, you consent to the practices described herein.
Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information:
Personal Information You Provide:
- Name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email address
- Insurance information and identification numbers
- Medical history, symptoms, and health-related information you share with us
- Information submitted through appointment request forms or contact forms on our website
Automatically Collected Information:
- Browser type and version
- Operating system
- Pages visited, time spent on pages, and referring URLs
- IP address and general geographic location
- Cookies and similar tracking technologies
How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide, maintain, and improve our medical services
- Schedule and manage appointments
- Communicate with you about your care, including appointment reminders and follow-up instructions
- Process billing and insurance claims
- Respond to your inquiries and requests
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations
- Improve our website functionality and user experience
- Send health-related information and practice updates, where permitted
How We Protect Your Information
We implement a variety of administrative, technical, and physical security measures to maintain the safety of your personal information. These include encrypted data transmission, secure storage systems, access controls, and regular security assessments. While we strive to protect your personal information, no method of electronic transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
Sharing of Information
We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information in the following circumstances:
- For Treatment, Payment, and Healthcare Operations: As described in our HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices
- With Service Providers: Third-party vendors who assist us in operating our website, conducting our practice, or servicing you, provided they agree to keep your information confidential
- As Required by Law: When disclosure is required by federal, state, or local law, or in response to a court order or legal process
- To Protect Rights and Safety: When we believe disclosure is necessary to protect our rights, your safety, or the safety of others
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience. Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help us understand how you use our website. You can set your browser to refuse cookies or alert you when cookies are being sent. However, some features of our website may not function properly without cookies.
Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites, including hospital affiliates, health resources, and patient portals. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these third-party sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party website you visit.
Your Rights
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:
- Access the personal information we hold about you
- Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
- Request deletion of your personal information, subject to certain exceptions
- Opt out of receiving marketing communications
- File a complaint with a regulatory authority
For health information rights, please refer to our HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices.
Children's Privacy
Our website is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 through our website. If you believe we have inadvertently collected such information, please contact us so we can promptly delete it.
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. We encourage you to review this policy periodically to stay informed about how we are protecting your information.
Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Ilyas K. Colombowala, MD, FACC, FHRS
13325 Hargrave Rd, Suite 280
Houston, TX 77070
Phone: (832) 478-5067