Privacy Policy & SMS Compliance Statement
Effective Date: 16 September 2025 | Agency: Hometown Health Insurance Agency
At Hometown Health Insurance Agency ("we," "our," or "us"), your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information, particularly as it relates to SMS text messaging in compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), and CTIA best practices.
Text Messaging (SMS) and Mobile Information
If you check the consent box on one of our forms, you agree to receive text messages from Hometown Health Insurance at the phone number you provide. Message types may include appointment reminders and confirmations, plan and enrollment updates, and replies to your inquiry. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP at any time to opt out, or HELP for assistance.
No mobile information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. Information sharing with subcontractors in support services, such as customer service, is permitted. All other use case categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
- Message frequency: Messages are recurring and message frequency varies. On average, you may receive 1-2 messages per month based on your requests and interactions with our office.
- Message and data rates may apply: Standard message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier and service plan. Hometown Health Insurance Agency is not responsible for any charges incurred as a result of receiving SMS messages.
- Mobile number non-sharing: We do not sell, rent, share, or distribute your mobile phone number or SMS consent to any third parties for marketing or any other purpose.
- Opt-out: You may opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message. You may receive one additional message confirming your opt-out request.
- Help: For assistance, reply HELP to any message or contact us at (208) 521-3445.
1. Information Privacy & Security
We value your trust and take strong measures to protect your personal information.
- No Selling or Sharing: We do not sell, trade, rent, or distribute your personal information to any third party for marketing purposes. Your data is used only to provide you with health insurance services and communications related to your coverage.
- HIPAA Compliance: We utilize HIPAA-compliant systems to protect sensitive health and insurance information, ensuring that your data is handled with the highest level of confidentiality.
- Secure Technology: All personal information you share with us is protected through encrypted software, secure servers, and administrative safeguards designed to prevent unauthorized access.
- Limited Access: Only authorized team members who need the information to serve you have access to your records.
2. Information We Gather
In order to provide you with accurate insurance services, we may collect the following information:
- Personal Identifiers: Name, date of birth, gender.
- Contact Information: Phone number, email address, home or mailing address.
- Insurance & Health Information: Policy numbers, Medicare/Medicaid details, and benefit eligibility data necessary to assist with your coverage.
- Consent Records: Documentation of your opt-in or opt-out choices for SMS messages and other communications.
We collect and use your personal data solely for the purpose of providing and improving our services, communicating with you, and responding to your inquiries or requests. Your data will not be transferred to external organizations.
- Data Use: Your information is used only to deliver our services, manage your account, and communicate important updates or responses.
- Data Sharing: We do not share your personal data with any third parties.
- Data Protection: We implement strict access controls, conduct regular staff training on data privacy, and use data encryption to prevent unauthorized access or sharing of your information.
- Contact: For any questions, concerns, or to request to opt out of communications, please contact us at admin@hometownh.com or (208) 521-3445.
We are committed to protecting your personal information and have implemented the following safeguards to prevent unauthorized sharing of your data:
- Administrative safeguards: Access to personal data is restricted to authorized personnel only and regular privacy training is provided.
- Technical safeguards: We use secure systems, encryption, and regularly updated security protocols to protect your information.
- Physical safeguards: Our facilities and data storage locations are secured to prevent unauthorized physical access.
We are committed to protecting your privacy.
- Information Collection: We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide, such as your name, email address, and any other details you submit through our forms or services.
- Use of Information: Your information is used to provide and improve our services, respond to your inquiries, and communicate with you as necessary.
- Cookies: Our website may use cookies to enhance your browsing experience. You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies if you prefer.
- Data Security: We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure.
- Data Sharing: Your data will not be transferred to external organizations.
- Your Rights: You have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of your personal information. To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided on our website.
- Policy Updates: We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Please review this page periodically for any changes.
3. How We Gather Information
We gather information in the following ways:
- Directly From You: When you provide information via our website, over the phone, through forms, or during in-person appointments.
- Text Message & Email Communication: When you reply to our reminders, opt in to receive updates, or send us messages.
- Third-Party Partners (With Consent): When appropriate and authorized, we may receive information from insurance carriers or government agencies (such as Medicare or Medicaid) to better assist with your benefits.
- Website & Online Tools: When you use our HIPAA-compliant forms or scheduling tools to submit information securely online.
We collect and use your personal information to provide and improve our services, process your requests, communicate with you, and ensure the security of our website. Your data may be shared with trusted service providers who assist us in operating our website and delivering our services, but only as necessary and under strict confidentiality obligations. Your data will not be transferred to external organizations.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or concerns about our privacy practices or your personal data, you can contact us at:
- Email: admin@hometownh.com
- Phone: (208) 521-3445
- Address: 3729 Woodking Drive, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, United States
4. SMS Opt In
- Data Collection: We will collect your name, email address, mailing address, and mobile phone number when you sign up for SMS updates. The information will be collected via the website contact form, email, or other intake systems.
- Data Usage: We use your data solely for sending updates, appointment notifications, and reminders related to our products or services.
- Data Security: We protect your data with secure storage measures to prevent unauthorized access.
- Data Retention: We retain your information as long as you are subscribed to our SMS service. You may request deletion at any time.
- MESSAGE AND DATA RATES MAY APPLY. Your mobile carrier may charge fees for sending or receiving text messages, especially if you do not have an unlimited texting or data plan.
- Messages are recurring, and message frequency varies.
- Contact Hometown Health Insurance at (208) 521-3445 or admin@hometownh.com for HELP or to STOP receiving messages.
- Opt-Out: You can opt out of the SMS list at any time by texting, emailing, or replying STOP or CANCEL to admin@hometownh.com or (208) 521-3445. After unsubscribing, you will receive a final SMS to confirm you have unsubscribed and we will remove your number from our list within 24 hours.
- You can send HELP or INFO for additional assistance, and you will receive a text including our phone number, email and website. We are here to help you.
- Non-Sharing Clause: We do not share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. Hometown Health Insurance will not sell, rent, or share the collected mobile numbers.
5. Data Protection
We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information. While no system is 100% secure, we are committed to keeping your data safe and confidential.
We are committed to protecting your privacy. Your information is collected and used solely for the purpose of sending SMS communications. We do not share your data with third parties except as required by law. Your data will not be transferred to external organizations.
Strict access controls are in place to ensure only authorized personnel can access your information. We continuously monitor our systems to prevent unauthorized sharing or access to your data.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your data or this privacy policy, please contact us at: (208) 521-3445 or admin@hometownh.com.
6. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The latest version will always be posted on our website with the "Effective Date" listed at the top.
7. Terms and Conditions
By providing your phone number, you consent to receive conversational messages from Hometown Health Insurance Agency. Message frequency may vary. On average, you may receive 1-2 messages per month. Message and data rates may apply.
To get help, reply HELP to any message. To opt out, reply STOP at any time.
8. SMS Messaging Terms & Conditions
By providing your mobile phone number to Hometown Health Insurance Agency, you consent to receive SMS text messages from us for the limited purposes outlined below.
Types and Purposes of SMS Communications
SMS text messages will be used solely for appointment scheduling, confirmations, and reminders; responding to customer service inquiries; general account-related communications; and conversational messages in discussions related to coverages, services, and benefits. We will not send marketing or promotional text messages without your express written consent.
Examples of SMS Messages
Messages may be conversational in nature. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Appointment Scheduling: "Hi [First Name], this is Hometown Health Insurance Agency. Just a reminder about your appointment on [Date/Time]. Need to reschedule? Reply here and we'll help you find another time."
- Customer Service: "Hello [First Name], thanks for reaching out! How can we help with your health coverage today?"
- Follow-Up / Support: "Hi [First Name], this is Hometown Health Insurance Agency checking in. Do you have any other questions about your plan or coverage we can help answer?"
- Informational Messages: "Hi [First Name], this is Hometown Health Insurance Agency checking in. Just wanted to make you aware that the Medicare Open Enrollment Period begins on 10/1 this year. Would you like any information from us about your plan?"
- Conversational messages: "Hi [Client Name], this is Hometown Health Insurance Agency wanting to wish you a happy birthday! Hope you have a great day, and that you are able to find something to make your day special."
- Transactional messages (e.g., order confirmations, shipping updates)
Frequency of Messages
The number of SMS messages you receive will vary based on your requests and interactions with our office.
Opt-Out
You may opt out of receiving SMS messages at any time by replying "STOP" to any message you receive. After opting out, you may receive one additional message confirming that your request has been processed. To re-subscribe, you may contact us directly.
Help
For assistance regarding SMS communications, reply "HELP" to any message or contact our office at (208) 521-3445.
Message & Data Rates
Standard message and data rates may apply, depending on your mobile carrier and service plan. Hometown Health Insurance is not responsible for any charges incurred as a result of receiving SMS messages.
Privacy & Data Security
- Your mobile number and any personal information shared via SMS are protected through secure, HIPAA-compliant systems.
- We do not sell, rent, or distribute your information to any third parties.
- All SMS communications are intended only for customer support and account-related purposes.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our SMS compliance practices, please contact us. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this privacy policy or the handling of your data, please contact us at admin@hometownh.com or (208) 521-3445. Your data will not be transferred, shared, or disclosed to any external organizations under any circumstances.
Hometown Health Insurance Agency
Phone: (208) 521-3445
Email: admin@hometownh.com
Address: 3729 Woodking Drive, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, United States