Terms and Conditions / Practice Policies
Effective date: 08/06/2025
By using this website or booking an appointment with Dr. Rivera Internal Medicine Practice, whether online, by phone, or in person, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions and Practice Policies. If you do not agree, please refrain from using this website or scheduling an appointment.
1. Medical disclaimer
This website provides general medical information for educational and awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek personal consultation for any health concerns.
2. Appointments and consultations
Booking: Appointments may be made by phone or through our secure online portal.
Cancellations: A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee.
Late arrivals: Patients arriving more than 15 minutes late may be asked to reschedule.
Emergency consultations: Urgent visits outside office hours, on holidays, or weekends may incur extra charges and are offered at the physician’s discretion.
3. Care for minors
Patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Written consent is required in advance for unaccompanied minors.
4. Consent for medical examination
By attending your appointment, you (or your guardian) consent to examination and any necessary treatments, including physical touch as required in a clinical setting. All interactions are respectful and professional.
5. Patient confidentiality
All patient information is protected under healthcare privacy laws. Your data will never be shared without explicit consent, unless legally required.
6. Insurance and payments
Dr. Rivera accepts several local insurance plans. Confirm your coverage prior to your appointment.
Payment for non-covered services or co-pays is required at the time of service.
Patients are responsible for charges not reimbursed by their insurance.
7. Prescription and refills
Please request prescription refills at least 48 hours in advance.
Controlled medications are only prescribed when medically necessary and in line with legal guidelines.
8. Communication
Messages via email or apps are not encrypted and may not be secure.
For urgent concerns, please call directly or seek emergency care.
9. Access to medical records
Patients can request their medical records in writing. A processing fee may apply. Records will be provided within a reasonable timeframe.
10. Informed consent
Before beginning treatment, the physician will explain the risks, benefits, and options. No procedures will be performed without your informed consent.
11. No emergency care guarantee
This practice does not offer emergency care. In a medical emergency, call emergency services or go to the hospital. Emergency consultations by Dr. Rivera are discretionary.
12. Follow-up and test results
While we make every effort to inform you of results, it is your responsibility to follow up for lab and test outcomes and any needed care.
13. Behavioral policy
Aggressive, inappropriate, or threatening conduct toward staff or patients will result in denied service and potential legal action.
14. Telemedicine and remote consultations
Virtual consultations may be offered for certain conditions. Patients accept the limitations of remote care including lack of physical examination and potential technical difficulties.
15. Medical certificates and documentation
Certificates or reports (e.g. fitness or travel forms) may require a separate appointment and are issued only when medically justified.
16. Medical record retention
Records are maintained in compliance with Aruban law and destroyed or archived securely after the legal retention period.
17. Consent to data processing
Patients consent to the collection and use of their data for medical, billing, and compliance purposes as part of standard care operations.
18. Third-party links
This site may link to external websites. Dr. Rivera Internal Medicine Practice is not responsible for the content or privacy practices of those sites.
19. Fees and service changes
Prices for services are subject to change without prior notice. Updated fees will be posted at the clinic or online.
20. Right to refuse service
We reserve the right to decline care based on non-compliance, inappropriate behavior, or when not in the best interest of the patient or clinic.
21. Governing law
These terms are governed by the laws of Aruba. Legal disputes will be resolved under Aruban jurisdiction.
22. Language disclaimer
If discrepancies occur between translations, the English version of these terms shall prevail.
23. Coverage during absence
When Dr. Rivera is unavailable (e.g., for vacation or medical leave), we will notify patients and provide a referral or alternative care when possible.
24. Insurance disclaimer
Insurance approval is not guaranteed. The patient is responsible for all service costs not covered by their provider.
25. No guarantee of outcome
While we strive for optimal care, no medical outcome can be guaranteed. Responses to treatment vary per individual.
26. Updates to these terms
These policies are subject to change. Continued use of services implies acceptance of the most recent version. The latest terms are available at the clinic or on our website.