Purpose. OrthoArkansas offers SMS/text messaging as a convenience for appointment reminders, scheduling, care coordination, and communication with our clinical staff. This policy explains how we use text messaging and how you can control it.

Consent. By providing your mobile number and agreeing to receive text messages, you consent to receive SMS from us. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply.

Security notice. Standard SMS/text messages are not encrypted and are not a fully secure method of communication. There is a risk that messages could be intercepted, viewed on a shared or lost device, or accessed by others with access to your phone or carrier account. We limit the health information included in texts, but by opting in you acknowledge and accept these risks.

Information in messages. We minimize protected health information in texts. We will not include sensitive details (such as diagnoses or test results) in SMS unless you specifically request it. For detailed clinical information, we will direct you to a secure channel or a phone call.

Your choices / opt-out. Participation is voluntary. You may opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message, or by contacting us at (501)-500-3500. Opting out of texts will not affect your ability to receive care or communicate with us by phone, portal, or mail. Reply HELP for assistance.

Minor Patients. For patients under the age of 18, consent to receive SMS communications must be provided by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or guardian’s mobile number will be used for appointment reminders, scheduling, and care coordination communications. OrthoArkansas will not send SMS communications directly to a minor patient’s mobile number without express written consent from a parent or legal guardian. If you are a parent or guardian and wish to update your consent preferences or contact information, please call us at (501)-500-3500.

Sharing. We do not sell your phone number or text-message content. We do not share it with third parties for marketing. Message content and your number are handled in accordance with HIPAA and our Notice of Privacy Practices. Our messaging is delivered through a third-party service provider that acts as our business associate under HIPAA.

Data handling. Text message records may be retained as part of your medical record consistent with applicable law and our record-retention policies.

Changes. We may update this policy and will post the current version at this link.

Contact. OrthoArkansas, 800 Fair Park Blvd, Little Rock, AR 72204. (501)-500-3500. oamarketing@orthoarkansas.com