Privacy Policy

Hormood Care Services (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting the privacy, dignity, and rights of the individuals we serve. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal and health information in compliance with Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) requirements, including applicable 245D standards and HIPAA regulations.

1. Services Covered by This Policy

This Privacy Policy applies to all services provided by Hormood Care Services, including but not limited to:

• Basic Support Services: Personal Care Assistance (PCA), Homemaker Services, and Companion Care.
• In-Home Support: Individualized Home Support (IHS), In-Home Family Support, and Respite Care Services.
• Community-Based Services: Independent Living Skills and Community-Based Support.

2. Information We Collect

We collect only information necessary to provide safe, effective, and person-centered services:

• Individual (Client) Information: Full name, contact details, date of birth, emergency contacts, medical history, diagnoses, service plans, and insurance/waiver billing data.
• Caregiver and Staff Information: Employment history, training records, background study status, and licensing documentation.
• Website & Communication Data: Information submitted via contact forms, application forms, and basic website analytics.

3. How We Use Information

We use collected information to develop individual service plans, deliver services in accordance with DHS 245D requirements, coordinate care with healthcare providers, and maintain accurate billing records.

4. Data Privacy & Individual Rights

Hormood Care Services respects the privacy rights of all individuals served. Under 245D and HIPAA, individuals have the right to access their records, request corrections, be informed of information use, and file a complaint without fear of retaliation.

5. Sharing & Disclosure of Information

We do not sell personal information. Information is shared only with DHS, lead agencies, county case managers, healthcare providers involved in the individual's care, or insurers for billing purposes.

6. HIPAA Compliance

Hormood Care Services complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Protected Health Information (PHI) is safeguarded through administrative, technical, and physical protections.

7. Information Security & Record Retention

We protect data through secure, password-protected electronic systems and locked physical storage for paper records in adherence to DHS-required record retention schedules.

8. Incident Reporting & Data Breach

Any suspected or confirmed breach of private data is investigated immediately and reported according to DHS and HIPAA requirements.

9. Children & Vulnerable Adults

We follow all Minnesota Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults Act requirements, including mandatory reporting and the protection of the rights of those we serve.