Policies

Privacy Policies

The security and privacy of your personal data is one of our primary concerns and we have taken every precaution to protect it. Under the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”), patients have certain rights to privacy regarding their protected health information. This information can and will be used to:

• Conduct, plan and direct treatment and follow-up among the multiple healthcare providers who may be involved in that treatment directly and indirectly.
• Obtain payment from third-party payers.
• Conduct normal healthcare operations such as quality assessments and physician certifications.

Patients are required to read and sign our Privacy Policy. South Court Dental Medicine has the right to change its Privacy Policy from time to time. Patients may request in writing that South Court Dental Medicine restrict how their private information is used or disclosed to carry out treatment, payment or health care operations. South Court Dental Medicine is not required to agree to these requested restrictions, but if we do agree then we are bound to abide by such restrictions.

Infection Control

Infection controls and universal precautions protect clients and staff alike. Everyone benefits from rigorous infection control — you, your dentist, and the dental team. The cornerstone in a good and safe dental practice is the element of trust. You should feel free to discuss this topic with the doctors and receive a straightforward answer. Dr. Cartwright and the entire team follow procedures recommended by several federal agencies: the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). These measures include:

• Disinfectant hand soap
• Gloves and face masks
• Chemical disinfection of countertops and surfaces
• Sterilization of all equipment before every use
• Disposable materials

We sterilize all reusable equipment, including dental handpieces. We use an autoclave, a device that kills bacteria and viruses by steam, heat and pressure.

The best defense against disease is information. The more you know, the better equipped you are to make wise decisions about your health care. The more you know about our daily procedures and policies, the more comfortable you will feel.