The full definition
TCPA governs commercial telephone outreach. Key requirements: prior express written consent before sending automated text messages or making automated calls; honoring opt-outs immediately; restricting calls to between 8am and 9pm local time; maintaining DNC (Do Not Call) lists; identifying the caller. Violations carry $500–$1,500 per incident, and class actions routinely settle for tens of millions.
Why it matters in practice
Healthcare practices running SMS sequences need to be TCPA-aware. The biggest practical implications: don't send marketing texts to patients who haven't opted in, respect STOP replies immediately, observe quiet hours (typically 9 PM to 8 AM local time), and maintain accurate DNC lists.
Real-world examples
- Capturing express written consent during the intake conversation before sending appointment reminders
- Honoring a STOP reply within seconds and logging the opt-out
- Sending marketing SMS only between 9 AM and 8 PM in the patient's time zone
Inside Velant
Velant's messaging engine is TCPA-aware: quiet hours respected by default, DNC list enforcement, automatic opt-out handling, and timezone-aware send windows.
Related terms
- HIPAA-Compliant CRMA customer relationship management system designed to handle Protected Health Information (PHI) in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.
- BAA (Business Associate Agreement)A HIPAA-required contract between a covered entity (a healthcare provider) and any third-party vendor that handles PHI on their behalf.
- PHI (Protected Health Information)Any individually identifiable health information held or transmitted by a covered entity or business associate — including name, DOB, address linked to a health condition, treatment, or payment.