Terms of Use – SMS/Mobile Messaging Program

1. Mobile Messaging Program Description

By enrolling in our mobile messaging program, you agree to receive recurring SMS and/or RCS text messages from Bakersfield Family Medical Group to the mobile number you have provided. These messages may include, but are not limited to, appointment reminders, marketing information, billing notifications, and care coordination updates. Messages will not contain personal health information (PHI). Messages are not secured or encrypted and PHI should not be sent to Bakersfield Family Medical Group via text message.

You are not required to opt in as a condition of receiving care. Participation in the messaging program is voluntary; however, if you choose not to participate, we may be unable to deliver certain timely communications via text.

2. Message Frequency

Message frequency may vary.

3. Cost and Carrier Disclosures

Message and data rates may apply. If you have questions about your text or data plan, please contact your wireless provider. Bakersfield Family Medical Group is not responsible for charges incurred. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

4. Opt-Out Instructions

You may opt out of receiving text messages at any time by replying “STOP” to any message you receive. After texting “STOP,” you will receive one additional message confirming your request has been processed. If you wish to re-enroll at any time, text “START” to the same number.

5. Help and Support

If you experience issues with the messaging program, reply “HELP” for assistance, or call (661) 327-4411.

6. Consent and Data Usage

By opting in, you confirm that you are the owner or authorized user of the mobile number provided and consent to receive SMS and RCS messages as described in this Terms of Use. Mobile phone numbers are collected and used for healthcare-related communications only. We do not sell or share your phone number with unaffiliated third parties. Numbers may be shared only with trusted service providers involved in message delivery (e.g., messaging vendors, telecom providers).

7. Security and No PHI Disclaimer

SMS and RCS messaging channels are not fully secure and may not be HIPAA-compliant. Accordingly, we will not send unsecure messages containing personal health information (PHI).

8. Privacy Policy

The collection, storage, and use of your mobile phone number are governed by our Privacy Policy.

Our policies describe:

How your PHI is collected, used, and stored.
That your number will not be sold or shared except with service providers acting on our behalf.
That your number will not be used for unrelated marketing without your explicit, separate consent.

9. Changes to Messaging Terms

We may update this SMS/Mobile Messaging section from time to time. Any changes will be posted here and are effective upon posting. Your continued participation in the messaging program constitutes acceptance of those changes.