Introduction/Commitment
Northwestern Memorial is committed to protecting the privacy of all visitors to its Web site. It is our goal to maintain compliance with the highest standards of Web site privacy so our visitors may comfortably and safely use the site for a range of healthcare information needs. As used here, "Northwestern Memorial" means Northwestern Memorial Hospital and where appropriate, its affiliated and parent organizations.

Information Collected
Our system routinely collects information about origin and site navigation of Web site visitors. This information is used only to help us continually modify the site based on use patterns and is not linked to any personal identifying information. We do not collect any identifying or personal data on site users unless that information is submitted as part of a request for service or information, such as requesting an appointment. Northwestern Memorial does not currently use "cookies." A "cookie" is a text file placed on the browser of Web site visitor to identify Web site use patterns.

Use of Collected Information
Information about Web site use patterns will be utilized by the Internet Strategies team and other appropriate Northwestern Memorial staff to modify and enhance the Web site. Identifying individual information such as name, e-mail and address will be used only as requested by the visitor.If a visitor submits identifying information, only appropriate Northwestern Memorial staff will be involved in implementing the requested activity.

Consumer Choices
Personal information is only collected when a request for service as been issued. Users have the option of asking that personal information be removed from our site once the service has been completed and may end any subscription or request for information by submitting a cancellation request to Internet Strategies. If Web site users do not wish to have any "cookies" attached to their browser, they may disable cookies through their browser or Internet service company.

E-mail Security
The Northwestern Memorial Web site offers opportunities to communicate with some Northwestern programs by e-mail. Because normal e-mail is not encrypted, the possibility exists that unauthorized individuals may intercept e-mail messages with Northwestern Memorial. Northwestern Memorial is not responsible for privacy of e-mail messages except those stored in our system.

Northwestern Memorial would never ask for personal information such as social security numbers or bank account information through email communications. Should you ever receive such a request, you should contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center, which is a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center.

Links
Northwestern Memorial has contracted with A.D.A.M. for access to health information.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital has contracted with Photobooks, Inc. to manage the searchable physician directory. Photobooks uses "cookie" technology to track aggregate use of its site and states in its privacy policy that it will maintain confidentiality of any and all personally identifying information it gathers.

Users are encouraged to review the privacy policy of each linked site, as Northwestern Memorial is not responsible for the privacy policies or procedures of other sites.

Notification of Changes
Northwestern Memorial has the right to make changes to the Web site privacy statement. Any changes shall be effective on the date posted.