HIPAA Release Notice
Understanding how we handle health information in story submissions
Important Notice About Health Information
This notice explains how Cues for Cancer handles health information that may be included in story submissions. By submitting your story, you may be sharing personal health information (PHI) that is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
This is Not Legal Advice
This notice and release form are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or medical advice. If you have concerns about sharing health information, please consult with an attorney or healthcare provider.
What Constitutes Health Information
Health information in your story submissions may include, but is not limited to:
- Cancer diagnosis details
- Treatment information
- Medication names and effects
- Medical facility names
- Healthcare provider names
- Dates of treatment
- Physical or mental health conditions
- Insurance information
Your Consent and Rights
By submitting a story that contains health information, you are providing explicit consent for Cues for Cancer to use this information as specified in your submission preferences.
Public Display
Stories approved for publication will be displayed on our website, making health information visible to the general public.
Scope: Website, social media, newsletters, and promotional materials
Your Control
You control what information to share and can choose anonymous display options to protect your identity.
Options: Full name, first name only, or first initial only
How We Use and Protect Your Information
Usage Scope
Health information in your stories may be used for:
- Publication on our website and social media channels
- Inclusion in newsletters and email communications
- Use in promotional materials and fundraising efforts
- Educational purposes to raise cancer awareness
- Inspiring and supporting other community members
Protection Measures
- Review Process: All stories undergo review before publication
- Sensitive Information: We may recommend removing overly specific medical details
- Secure Storage: All submissions are stored securely with limited access
- Staff Training: Our team is trained on privacy and confidentiality practices
Revoking Consent and Removal Requests
You have the right to revoke your consent at any time, but please understand:
What We Can Do
- Remove your story from our website
- Stop using your story in new materials
- Update our records to reflect withdrawn consent
- Provide confirmation of removal actions
Limitations
- Previously distributed materials may persist
- Third-party shares are beyond our control
- Archive copies may be retained for legal purposes
- Search engine caches may temporarily retain content
Important Consideration
Once health information is published online, it may be copied, shared, or archived by third parties beyond our control. Consider carefully what information you choose to include in your story submission.
Recommendations for Safe Sharing
To protect your privacy while still sharing your meaningful story, consider:
Recommended to Include
- General cancer type (e.g., "breast cancer")
- Emotional journey and feelings
- Support system experiences
- Inspirational messages
- General treatment phases
- Coping strategies
Consider Carefully
- Specific medical record numbers
- Insurance claim details
- Exact medication dosages
- Healthcare provider full names
- Specific hospital room numbers
- Social Security or ID numbers
Download HIPAA Release Form
For your records, you can download a PDF copy of this HIPAA Release Notice. This document serves as confirmation of the terms you acknowledge when submitting a story with health information.
HIPAA Release Notice & Form
Complete document including notice, consent form, and your rights
Download PDF FormPDF will be generated with the current date and your IP address for verification
Questions or Concerns
If you have questions about this HIPAA Release Notice, your rights regarding health information, or need assistance with story submissions, please contact us:
Privacy Questions
For questions about health information handling and privacy practices
General Support
For general questions about story submissions and our programs
Acknowledgment Required for Story Submission
To submit a story that may contain health information, you must acknowledge that you have read and understood this HIPAA Release Notice.
Ready to share your story? Proceed to Story Submission Form