Privacy Policy

At The Nathan Kline Institute’s Rockland Sample (NKI-RS), operating under New York State’s Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene (RFMH), we respect your privacy and are committed to protecting it. NKI-RS is dedicated to safeguarding the security and confidentiality of research records, and to preserving the privacy of research participants. In accordance with this commitment, we create, maintain, and use all records in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

1. Collection of Information

We collect only the information necessary for conducting research and scheduling appointments. This may include contact details (e.g., name, phone number, email, address) and any relevant demographic or health-related data you choose to provide.

2. Use of Information

Your information is used solely for research-related purposes, appointment management, and any associated communications. You will never be required to share more personal information than is necessary for your participation.

3. Data Protection and Storage

We store all participant information securely, following strict federal, state, and local guidelines for research data management. We maintain appropriate technical and organizational measures to prevent unauthorized access, misuse, or disclosure of your data.

4. Data Sharing

We do not sell participant information under any circumstance. With your optional consent, de-identified data (stripped of personal identifiers) may be shared with qualified research collaborators to expand scientific understanding. Participation in data-sharing is entirely voluntary and is not required to take part in our research.

5. Your Choices

You may withdraw from any study or request the deletion of your personal information at any time, subject to any applicable research regulations. Simply contact us using the Contact Information below if you wish to change or remove your information.

6. Policy Updates

We reserve the right to update or modify this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our data practices. Any updates will be posted on our website along with the date of the latest revision.

7. Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy, please reach out to us at:

Email: rocklandsample@nki.rfmh.org

Phone: (845) 835-3008

Website: rocklandsample.org

By participating in our research and providing your information, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

A note about text messaging (SMS):

The Nathan Kline Institute’s Rockland Sample (NKIRS) offers text messaging as a convenient and optional method of communicating about your participation in the NKI-RS study. You can text us to schedule or reschedule your appointments and to get answers for study-specific questions. By opting in to receive SMS messages from NKIRS, you consent to receive text messages from us. Message frequency may vary based on the number of queries or scheduling issues you initiate. You can opt out at any time by replying “STOP,” “QUIT,” or “OPTOUT” in the text thread, or by contacting us at rocklandsample@rocklandsample.org or by calling us at 845-398-3008. Message and data rates may apply.

Revised 2/5/2025