Privacy Policy & HIPAA Compliance
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Steven Ochieng is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and security of all personal and sensitive information entrusted to me in the course of providing professional Swahili–English interpreting and translation services. This Privacy Policy explains how information is handled, with particular regard to compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
1. Scope of This Policy
This policy applies to:
- Visitors to this website
- Clients, agencies, healthcare providers, and legal organizations
- Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals whose information may be encountered during interpreting or translation assignments
2. HIPAA Compliance & Protected Health Information (PHI)
When providing services for healthcare providers, clinics, hospitals, or their authorized agents, I may have access to Protected Health Information (PHI) as defined under HIPAA.
I am committed to:
- Maintaining the confidentiality of all PHI
- Using PHI only for the purpose of performing contracted interpreting or translation services
- Not disclosing PHI to any unauthorized individual or entity
- Following the minimum necessary standard when accessing or handling PHI
I operate as a Business Associate or subcontracted language professional when applicable and will comply with all relevant HIPAA Privacy and Security Rule requirements.
3. Confidentiality of Interpreting & Translation Services
All assignments—medical, legal, or community-based—are treated as strictly confidential.
I adhere to professional standards that require:
- Neutrality and accuracy
- Non-disclosure of assignment content
- Secure handling of documents and information
- Ethical conduct consistent with healthcare and legal environments
4. Information Collected Through This Website
a) Information You Provide Voluntarily
This may include:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Organization name
- Assignment or service request details
This information is used solely to:
- Respond to inquiries
- Schedule services
- Provide quotes or availability
- Communicate regarding ongoing or future assignments
b) Website Usage Data
This website may collect limited, non-identifying data such as:
- Browser type
- Device information
- Pages visited
This data is used only for website functionality and performance and is not used to identify individuals.
5. Data Storage & Security
Reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards are used to protect information, including:
- Secure email and password-protected systems
- Limited access to sensitive information
- Secure handling and deletion of documents when no longer needed
I do not sell, rent, or share personal information with third parties for marketing purposes.
6. Email, Phone & Electronic Communication
While every effort is made to use secure communication methods, electronic communication (including email and contact forms) may not be fully secure.
Clients are encouraged not to submit sensitive medical or legal details through the website contact form unless specifically instructed to do so through a secure channel.
7. Retention of Information
Information is retained only for as long as necessary to:
- Fulfill contractual obligations
- Meet legal, professional, or billing requirements
Documents containing PHI are securely deleted or destroyed when no longer required.
8. Third-Party Services
This website may use trusted third-party services (such as hosting providers or scheduling tools). These providers are expected to maintain appropriate privacy and security standards. I am not responsible for the privacy practices of external websites.
9. Your Rights
Depending on applicable law, individuals may have the right to:
- Request information about how their data is handled
- Request correction of inaccurate information
- Raise concerns regarding privacy or confidentiality
All privacy-related inquiries will be handled promptly and professionally.
10. Policy Updates
This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in law, professional standards, or business practices. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.
11. Contact Information
If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or HIPAA compliance, please contact:
Steven Ochieng
Professional Swahili–English Interpreter & Translator
Wisconsin, USA
© 2026 Steven Ochieng
This policy is intended for informational purposes and reflects good-faith compliance with applicable privacy and confidentiality standards.
