Medical Practice Website Terms & Conditions

What a good one includes

• A prominent medical disclaimer stating that website content is for informational purposes only and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.
• Clear terms of use for the patient portal, including user account security responsibilities and rules for secure messaging.
• An explicit warning advising users to call emergency services immediately rather than using the website or portal for urgent medical crises.
• Clauses protecting your practice’s original content, branding, logo, and educational materials from unauthorized copying or distribution.
• A limitation of liability regarding third-party links, such as external health resources, online pharmacies, or prescription services.
• A governing law clause identifying the state or region where legal disputes must be settled to protect your local practice jurisdiction.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Copying and pasting generic website terms of use that fail to address healthcare-specific risks, medical disclaimers, or patient portal interactions.
• Failing to state clearly that electronic communication via the website does not constitute an immediate clinical consultation or emergency response.
• Neglecting to update the terms when integrating new digital features, like online scheduling, telehealth links, or payment portal processors.
• Conflating the website terms of use with your HIPAA-mandated Notice of Privacy Practices, which must remain a separate, distinct document.

Frequently asked questions