Online Chat Feature Terms and Conditions

Ascension offers the Online Chat Feature ("Chat") as a convenience to its patients and website visitors. The Chat enables us to connect directly with individuals to provide health care resources and answer questions and concerns they may have. These Online Chat Feature Terms and Conditions ("Terms") apply to your use of the Chat.

TERMS OF USE

THE CHAT SHOULD NOT BE USED IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY. In case of emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

The Chat is not intended to take the place of a visit with your health care provider. The information you provide during the Chat will not be sent to or made available to a health care provider or included in your medical record.

We do not provide diagnosis, treatment or other medical services through the Chat. You should not include information or questions related to specific medical conditions or concerns in the Chat. These types of questions should be directed to your health care provider.  

Scheduling:

If you would like to schedule an appointment during the Chat, we may direct you to a self- service scheduling option, call you by telephone or, if available, provide scheduling services directly through the Chat.

Certain information that you provide during a Chat session for appointment scheduling purposes may constitute Protected Health Information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ("HIPAA"). We will keep your information confidential and comply with applicable privacy laws, including HIPAA.

You should limit the information that you provide through the Chat to the minimum amount necessary to schedule an appointment.

We do not guarantee that the Chat will be accessible twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week. The Chat may be unavailable, without prior notice to you, due to routine maintenance or due to circumstances beyond our control. The Chat may also be suspended or terminated without prior notice. We are not liable for any unavailability or technical issues with the Chat. Any inappropriate use of the Chat may result in termination of the Chat, in our discretion.

We may amend, supersede or rescind these Terms at any time and without prior notice.