Privacy & Clinical Practices

Last updated: April 2, 2026

Chief Privacy Officer: Sara Manske, RN, IBCLC

Contact:info@essentiallactation.com | 360-336-6468

Part 1: Website & Digital Privacy Policy

This section describes our policies on the collection and use of information when you use our website, member portals, and digital checkout.

Data Collection & Usage

We collect personally identifiable information (Email, Name, Phone) only when voluntarily submitted to facilitate your care or digital membership. We use this data to manage your account, process payments, and provide "The Care Kit" or "Full Circle" services.

Our Digital Partners

We utilize trusted third-party providers to ensure a seamless and secure boutique experience:

  • Platform: Squarespace (Website & Member Portals)

  • Clinical Management: IntakeQ (Secure Scheduling & Intake)

  • Payments: Square (Clinical Services) & PayPal (Digital Memberships)

  • Video: Google Meet (The Common Room)

Community Confidentiality

The Common Room is a private community space. While we do not record these sessions, information shared during live sessions is visible to other participants. We require all users to adhere to our Confidentiality Agreement to protect the "Social Swaddle" of our community.

Part 2: Notice of Privacy Practices (HIPAA)

This section describes how medical information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to this information as required by federal law.

Your Medical Records & Rights

As an RN/IBCLC-led practice, your Protected Health Information (PHI) is handled with the highest level of clinical security. You have the right to:

  • Access Your Records: Request an electronic copy of your medical record through our secure IntakeQ portal.

  • Request Corrections: Ask us to amend health information you believe is incorrect.

  • Confidential Communications: Request that we contact you in a specific way (e.g., home vs. office phone).

  • Limit Sharing: Ask us not to share certain information for treatment or billing (though we may say "no" if it affects your safety).

Clinical Uses & Disclosures

We typically use or share your health information to:

  • Treat You: We share data with your "Circle of Care" (e.g., your pediatrician or midwife) to ensure coordinated support for you and your infant.

  • Run Our Practice: To manage your treatment and improve our services.

  • Bill for Services: To provide you with superbills or process payments through secure channels.

Our Responsibilities

  • We are required by law to maintain the privacy and security of your protected health information.

  • We utilize industry-leading, HIPAA-compliant encryption to ensure your data remains private.

  • We will notify you promptly if a breach occurs that may have compromised the privacy of your information.