Introduction

By opting in to receive SMS/MMS messages from us, the Berkeley Free Clinic, you agree to the following terms and conditions. These messages may include appointment reminders, referral updates, and limited information regarding your health services. If you are experiencing an emergency or require urgent care, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or seek mental health assistance, please call the local suicide prevention hotline at 415-781-0500, or call or text the national hotline at 988. If you seek further assistance, please utilize our hotlines resources page.

Consent to Receive Messages

By providing your mobile number and checking on your intake form permission to contact you you or responding “YES,” you authorize the Berkeley Free Clinic to send you text messages which can include: 

  • Appointment confirmations, reminders, and rescheduling

  • Referral updates or information

  • Limited health-related communications

Message frequency may vary. 

Cost and Charges

Berkeley Free Clinic does not charge for text messages. However, message and data rates may apply from your mobile carrier. You are responsible for any such charges.

Opting Out

You may opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message. You may also contact our office at (510) 548-2570 to revoke your consent.

Message Content

Messages will not include sensitive personal health information unless necessary and permitted by law. You acknowledge that text messaging is not a secure method of communication and accept this risk.

Eligibility

You must be at least 18 years old or have the consent of a parent or legal guardian to enroll in this messaging service.

Changes

We may modify or update these Terms at any time. Continued use of the SMS service constitutes your acceptance of any changes.

Privacy Policy 

Information We Collect

We may collect and store the following information:

  • Your name and mobile phone number

  • Appointment and referral details

  • Time and content of text messages

  • Consent records

How We Use This Information

We use your data to:

  • Send appointment reminders and confirmations

  • Notify you of referrals or follow-ups

  • Improve communication and scheduling

  • Comply with legal obligations

Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your information. We may share data with:

  • Health professionals within our clinic for continuity of care

  • Technology providers who help us manage messaging services

  • Legal authorities when required by law

All third-party service providers are required to maintain the confidentiality and security of your information.

Data Security

We implement administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your data. However, no system can be completely secure. Text messages are not encrypted and may be viewable by your mobile carrier or others with access to your phone.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Request access to your information

  • Update or correct inaccuracies

  • Withdraw consent for messaging

  • Request deletion of your data where appropriate

Contact Us

For questions or concerns about your privacy or these policies, contact:
Berkeley Free Clinic
Phone: (510) 548-2570
Email:info@berkeleyfreeclinic.org
Address: 2339 Durant Avenue Berkeley, CA 94704