HIPAA Rules

We take our patients’ privacy seriously. For this reason, Gulf Coast Eye Institute follows all of the HIPAA standards. (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act of 1996)

We care about our patients.

The team at Gulf Coast Eye Institute wants you to receive professional care and predictable outcomes from any procedure performed and the best vision possible so that you can enjoy a better quality life. To ensure this, we want to make you aware of your Patient Bill of Rights. We stand behind our services and the delivery of concierge-style care to our patients.

Information for patients

You have the right to accurate and easily understood information about your eye procedure options, eye care professionals, and eye care facilities. If you don’t understand something, help should be given so you can make informed eye care decisions.

Choice of providers and plans

You have the right to choose an eye care provider who can give you high-quality eye care at a competitive price, when you need it.

Taking part in treatment decisions

You have the right to know your treatment options and take part in decisions about your care. Parents, guardians, family members, or others, chosen by you, can speak for you if you cannot make your own decisions.

Respect and non-discrimination

You have a right to considerate, respectful care from your eye surgeon and office staff in a manner that is not discriminatory on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran’s status or national origin.

Confidentiality (privacy) of health information

You have the right to talk privately with your eye care provider and to have your health care information protected.

Complaints and appeals

You have the right to a fair, and objective review of any complaint you have against your eye doctor or other health care personnel. This includes complaints about waiting times, operating hours, the actions of health care personnel, and the adequacy of health care facilities.

Consumer responsibilities

In a health care system that protects consumer or patient rights, patients should expect to take on the responsibilities of following their pre- and post-surgery instructions. Patients are expected to pay their medical bills, follow the guidance of their eye surgeon and attending medical staff and to treat health care workers and other patients with respect. Having patients involved in their care increases the best possible results and helps support a high-quality, cost-conscious eye care system.