Privacy Policy

Global Brain & Spine Institute

Last Updated: 09/03/2025
Global Brain & Spine Institute (“we,” “our,” or “us”), led by Dr. Christopher Sarkiss, MD, FACS, FAANS, FCNS, values your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you use our website, patient portals, forms, or other Services (collectively, the “Services”).
By using our Services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

1. Protected Health Information (PHI) and HIPAA

As a medical practice, we comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Any information that identifies you and relates to your health, medical history, treatment, or payment for healthcare services (“PHI”) is handled in strict accordance with HIPAA regulations.

  • PHI may be collected through patient intake forms, appointment scheduling, telehealth platforms, or medical records.
  • We do not disclose PHI without your written authorization, except as permitted or required by law (e.g., treatment, payment, healthcare operations, or public health requirements).

2. Information We Collect

We may collect two types of information:

A. Personal & Medical Information
  • Name, date of birth, contact details (email, phone, address)
  • Insurance and billing information
  • Medical history, diagnoses, treatment details, and prescriptions
  • Emergency contact information
B. Non-Personal Information
  • Website usage data (e.g., IP address, browser type, device data)
  • Cookies and analytics data to improve website functionality

By clicking “Submit” on the Contact Us form, you agree to Global Brain & Spine Institute (GBSI) Privacy Policy. You consent to receive phone calls and SMS messages from GBSI for communications and/or for marketing purposes. Message frequency depends on your activity. Message and data rates may apply. You may opt-out by texting “STOP”.

3. SMS Privacy Policy

No personal information, mobile number, or messaging consent information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

4. How We Use Information

We use your information to:
  • Provide medical care and treatment
  • Schedule and manage appointments
  • Process billing, insurance claims, and payments
  • Communicate with you regarding your care, test results, or reminders
  • Comply with legal and regulatory obligations
  • Improve our website, services, and patient experience

5. How We Share Information

We may share your information in the following situations:
  • With healthcare providers directly involved in your treatment
  • With insurance companies to process claims
  • With service providers who support our operations (e.g., IT, billing services), bound by confidentiality agreements
  • As required by law (e.g., court orders, public health reporting)
  • In case of emergencies to protect your health and safety

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal or medical information.

6. Patient Rights

Under HIPAA, you have the right to:
  • Access and request copies of your medical records
  • Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information
  • Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures
  • Receive an accounting of disclosures made of your PHI
  • Request confidential communications (e.g., using an alternate address or phone number)
  • File a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

7. Data Security

We take administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information, including:
  • Encrypted patient portals and telehealth systems
  • Secure electronic health record (EHR) platforms
  • Restricted staff access to PHI based on role
  • Ongoing staff training in privacy and data security practices

8. Cookies & Website Tracking

Our website may use cookies and analytics tools to understand user behavior and improve functionality. These do not collect PHI. You may disable cookies through your browser settings, but some site features may not function properly.

9. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those external sites.

10. Children’s Privacy

Our Services are intended for adults and are not directed toward children under 13. We do not knowingly collect information from children without parental consent.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted with a new “Last Updated” date. Continued use of the Services indicates acceptance of the revised Policy.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us:
Global Brain & Spine Institute
Attn: Legal & Compliance
1125 S Beverly Drive, Suite 111
Los Angeles, CA 90035
(310) 593-9833
drsarkiss@globalbrainspine.com