SMS Messaging Policy
Last updated: July 2026
Who Receives Text Messages
Echo Health provides technology that enables healthcare organizations to improve communication, care coordination, and patient engagement. As part of this, Echo sends SMS text messages to patients who are enrolled in a care plan by their healthcare provider. Messages are sent only to patients whose provider has recorded their mobile phone number during the enrollment process and who have consented to receive messages.
You will only receive messages if:
- Your healthcare provider has enrolled you in an Echo Health care plan
- Your mobile phone number was provided during enrollment
- You have consented to receive SMS check-in messages
Echo Health does not send unsolicited messages. We do not purchase phone number lists or send marketing messages.
Why We Send Messages
After you leave a healthcare facility, your care team wants to make sure you are following through on your discharge plan. Echo Health sends brief SMS check-ins that ask whether you have completed specific care plan tasks, such as:
- Picking up a prescription
- Scheduling a follow-up appointment
- Completing a daily health activity (e.g., recording your weight)
Your responses help your care team see which patients are on track and which patients may need a follow-up call. Echo's SMS check-ins are intended to support care coordination and patient engagement rather than provide medical advice or replace clinical judgment.
How Consent Works
Consent for SMS messages follows this process:
Your healthcare provider creates a care plan for you during discharge planning or a care coordination visit.
During enrollment in the Echo Health mobile app, you review an SMS consent section with an unchecked checkbox. You must actively check the box to agree to receive SMS check-in messages. Your consent is recorded with a timestamp before any messages are sent.
Your provider enters your mobile phone number into the system. This number is used exclusively for care plan check-ins.
Messages are limited to check-ins about your specific care plan tasks. We do not send marketing, promotional, or unrelated messages.
Reply STOP to any message to stop receiving texts. Your care plan and provider relationship are not affected by opting out.
How to Opt Out
Reply STOP to any Echo Health message to opt out.
You will receive one confirmation message and no further texts. You can also contact your healthcare provider or email us at [email protected] to opt out.
Getting Help
Reply HELP to any Echo Health message for assistance.
You can also reach us at [email protected].
Message Frequency and Costs
Message frequency varies based on your care plan and your provider's instructions. Your active care plan period is typically 30 days.
Message and data rates may apply. Echo Health does not charge for SMS messages, but your mobile carrier may apply standard messaging fees. Contact your carrier for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't reply to a message?
Depending on your healthcare organization's workflow, a member of your care team may follow up. Not replying does not affect your medical care. The check-in simply helps your care team know who may need extra support.
Can I reply with more than Y or N?
Currently, our system recognizes Y (yes) and N (no) responses. If you have questions or need to communicate more, contact your healthcare provider directly or reply HELP to get our support email.
Is my phone number shared with anyone?
Your mobile phone number is used exclusively for care plan check-ins. We do not sell, share, or distribute your phone number to third parties for marketing or any purpose unrelated to your care.
What if I change my phone number?
Contact your healthcare provider to update your phone number in the system. Messages will continue to go to the number on file until it is updated.
Who is sending the messages?
Messages are sent by Echo Health on behalf of your healthcare provider. Messages will identify themselves as coming from Echo Health.
Is this a medical service?
No. Echo's SMS check-ins are intended to support care coordination and patient engagement. They do not provide medical advice or replace clinical judgment. Always contact your healthcare provider or call 911 for medical concerns.