Dream Steps Autism Therapy

Purpose

Dream Steps Autism Therapy (“we,” “our,” or “us”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This SMS Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you opt in to receive text (SMS) messages from us.

Information We Collect

When you opt in to receive SMS communications, we may collect:

• Your mobile phone number
• Your name (if provided)
• Relationship to the client (e.g., parent/guardian)
• Communication preferences
• Message interaction data (e.g., delivery, open, and response data)

We do not collect sensitive clinical information via SMS unless explicitly authorized and appropriate safeguards are in place.

How We Use SMS Communications

We use SMS messaging strictly for business and care-related purposes, including:

• Appointment reminders and scheduling updates
• Service coordination and communication with caregivers
• Billing notifications or administrative updates
• Important service alerts

We do not use SMS for marketing without separate, explicit consent.

Consent to Receive SMS Messages

By providing your mobile number and opting in, you consent to receive SMS messages from Dream Steps Autism Therapy in accordance with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

• Consent is not a condition of receiving services
• Message frequency may vary
• Message and data rates may apply

SMS Privacy Policy

Dream Steps Autism Therapy complies with federal law (TCPA, FCC) and Texas regulations including Texas Health & Safety Code and Texas Business & Commerce Code.

Information Collected:

– Phone number

– Name and relationship to client

– Communication preferences

We do not use SMS for marketing without explicit written consent.

Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or share your SMS consent or personal data with third parties for marketing purposes.

We may share information only:

• With service providers necessary to deliver SMS messages (e.g., secure messaging platforms)
• When required by law or regulatory authorities
• To protect the rights, safety, or integrity of our clients and organization

All third-party vendors are required to maintain confidentiality and comply with applicable privacy laws.

Data Security

We implement safeguards but SMS is not fully secure. Do not send sensitive PHI via text. 

We implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information, including:

• Secure messaging platforms
• Access controls
• Encryption where applicable

However, SMS is not a fully secure method of communication. We recommend limiting sensitive information sent via text.

HIPAA Considerations

As a healthcare provider, Dream Steps Autism Therapy complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

• SMS communications will be limited to the minimum necessary information
• Sensitive clinical details will not be shared via SMS unless explicitly authorized

SMS Terms & Conditions

By opting in, you agree to receive SMS messages from Dream Steps Autism Therapy.

– Message frequency varies

– Message/data rates may apply

– Consent is not a condition of services

Opt-Out:

Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

Help:

Reply HELP or email admin@dreamstepsautism.com

Compliance Statement

This policy is designed to comply with:

• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations
• Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
• CTIA Messaging Principles and Best Practices
• Applicable healthcare privacy laws, including Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
• Texas Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC)
• Texas Medicaid Provider Requirements
• Texas Identity Theft Enforcement and Protection Act

Record Retention

We retain SMS communication records in accordance with healthcare and regulatory requirements, including documentation standards under applicable state and federal laws.

Children’s Privacy

SMS communications are directed to parents, legal guardians, or authorized representatives of minors receiving services. We do not knowingly collect information directly from children via SMS.

Mandatory Reporting:

All staff comply with Texas mandatory reporting laws for abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Fraud, Waste & Abuse:

We comply with Texas Medicaid fraud prevention requirements.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this SMS Privacy Policy periodically. Updates will be posted on our website with the effective date.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this policy or your SMS preferences, please contact:

Dream Steps Autism Therapy

Email: admin@dreamstepsautism.com

Website: www.dreamstepsautism.com