1. Privacy Policy

Our Commitment to Your Privacy

The Gene Scene respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This policy explains what information I may collect, how I use it, when it may be shared, and the choices available to you.

This policy applies to information collected through The Gene Scene website, forms, email communications, consultations, client portals, purchases, and related services.

By using this website or engaging my services, you acknowledge this policy. Where applicable law requires specific consent for collecting or processing personal or sensitive information, that consent will be requested separately.

Information I Collect

Depending on how you interact with The Gene Scene, I may collect the following types of information:

Personal and contact information

• Name, email address, phone number, and other contact details you choose to provide.

• Information submitted through website forms, inquiries, questionnaires, and client intake forms.

• Billing and transaction information associated with purchases.

Health and wellness information

• Health history, symptoms, concerns, goals, and relevant lifestyle information.

• Information you share during consultations or through your client portal.

• Laboratory results, DNA-related information, and other test results you choose to share or that are obtained as part of a service you purchase.

• Notes, recommendations, and progress information related to your wellness plan.

Website and technical information

When you visit this website, certain technical information may be collected automatically, depending on the website tools and settings in use. This may include your IP address, browser and device information, pages visited, referral sources, and website usage data. Cookies or similar technologies may also be used where enabled.

Communications

If you contact me by email, through a form, or through a client platform, I may retain those communications and related information as needed to respond to you, provide services, and maintain appropriate business records.

How I Use Your Information

I use your information as reasonably necessary to:

• Respond to inquiries and communicate with you.

• Provide the services, consultations, testing arrangements, and personalized recommendations you request.

• Review relevant health history and test results in the context of your wellness services.

• Create, deliver, and update your personalized action plan.

• Manage scheduling, payments, client records, and customer support.

• Provide service-related updates and information about your purchase.

• Send marketing emails when permitted by law and, where required, with your consent.

• Maintain business, financial, and legal records.

• Protect the security and integrity of my website, services, and business.

• Meet applicable legal obligations and enforce applicable agreements.

I do not sell your personal information.

Third-Party Platforms and Service Providers

The Gene Scene is independently operated by me, Joline. I work with third-party providers to support the services and systems needed to run the business.

These may include:

Practice Better: Used for client management and, depending on the services and features in use, scheduling, forms, communication, records, and other client-related functions.

SelfDecode and DNA-testing providers: Used for applicable DNA testing, genetic data processing, and the delivery of genetic insights. The specific provider and services will depend on the testing arrangement.

Payment processors: Used to process payments and manage transactions.

Website, email, scheduling, and other business integrations: These may process limited information necessary to perform their functions.

These providers may process information on my behalf or as separate service providers under their own privacy terms. I aim to use information only as reasonably necessary to operate my business and provide the services you request. The privacy and security practices of each provider are governed by its own applicable policies and agreements.

I do not sell or rent your information to third parties for their own marketing purposes. I may disclose information where necessary to provide services, comply with legal obligations, protect legal rights, or address security or fraud concerns.

DNA Testing and Genetic Privacy

Genetic information is particularly personal, and I take that seriously.

DNA testing and genetic interpretation may involve information about your genetic makeup and insights derived from it. Depending on the service, information may be processed by the relevant DNA-testing provider and genetic analysis platform.

SelfDecode publishes its own privacy policy and terms explaining how it collects, uses, stores, and shares information. Please review those policies before using its services:

• SelfDecode Privacy Policy: https://selfdecode.com/en/privacy-policy/

• SelfDecode Terms of Service: https://selfdecode.com/en/terms-of-service/

SelfDecode describes its security practices as including HIPAA-grade security. That is a statement about its own practices, not a representation that The Gene Scene itself is HIPAA-compliant or that every platform involved in your care has the same legal status.

Using an Alias

Where supported by the provider's process, I can help you explore using an alias or pseudonym instead of your full name for your SelfDecode account or profile.

This may reduce the use of your direct name on that platform. However, an alias does not guarantee complete anonymity. Other account details, contact information, payment records, or genetic data may still be associated with you.

If you would like to explore this option, let me know before your DNA-related account or testing process begins so we can confirm what is possible.

Genetic Information and Third-Party Processing

Genetic information may be processed by the providers needed to perform the testing or analysis you request. The relevant provider's policies will explain its practices concerning data storage, service providers, research, consent, and other uses.

Please review those policies carefully and make your own informed decision before submitting genetic information to a third-party platform.

I will not knowingly sell your genetic information. Any handling or disclosure of information by The Gene Scene will be subject to applicable law, the terms of the services involved, and the privacy commitments described here.

How I Protect Your Information

I take reasonable steps to protect the information entrusted to me, including using appropriate business systems and reputable service providers.

However, no website, email service, digital platform, or electronic transmission can be guaranteed completely secure. I cannot guarantee that information will never be accessed, disclosed, altered, or lost through circumstances outside my reasonable control.

Please avoid sending highly sensitive health or genetic information through ordinary email unless we have agreed that it is appropriate to do so. Use the designated client portal or other secure method provided for your service when available.

Email and Marketing Communications

If you contact me or become a client, I may send messages related to your inquiry, purchase, appointments, testing, or services.

If you separately subscribe to marketing communications, I may send educational content, business updates, and information about offers. You can unsubscribe from marketing emails using the link provided in the email or by contacting me.

Unsubscribing from marketing communications will not necessarily stop essential service-related messages.

Cookies and Website Analytics

This website may use cookies or similar technologies to support website functionality and, where enabled, measure traffic and understand how visitors use the site.

The types of cookies and analytics tools used will depend on the website settings and integrations in place. You can manage cookies through your browser settings and, where available, through the website's cookie preferences.

Third-party services may collect information through their own technologies. Their practices are governed by their respective policies.

When Information May Be Disclosed

I may disclose information:

• To service providers and integrations as needed to deliver the services you request.

• When you authorize or direct me to share it.

• When disclosure is required by law, court order, or other lawful process.

• When reasonably necessary to protect the rights, safety, or security of clients, the business, or others.

• In connection with a business transfer or restructuring, where legally permitted and subject to applicable privacy requirements.

I do not sell your personal information.

How Long Information Is Retained

I retain personal and client information for as long as reasonably necessary to provide services, maintain appropriate business records, meet legal and financial obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce agreements.

Retention periods may vary depending on the type of information, the service provider involved, and applicable legal requirements.

Deleting information from my own records may not automatically delete information held by a third-party provider. Requests involving a third-party platform may need to be made directly to that provider.

Your Privacy Choices and Rights

Depending on where you live and the laws that apply, you may have rights to request access to personal information, correct inaccurate information, request deletion, restrict or object to certain processing, or withdraw consent where processing is based on consent.

To make a privacy-related request, contact me using the details listed at the end of this page. I may need to verify your identity before responding.

Some information may need to be retained to comply with legal obligations, maintain financial records, resolve disputes, or fulfill other lawful purposes.

Children's Privacy

The Gene Scene website and services are intended for adults. The website is not intended for children under 18, and I do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children under 18 through the website.

If you believe a child has submitted personal information through the website, please contact me so the matter can be reviewed.

Changes to This Privacy Policy

I may update this policy when my business practices, service providers, or legal requirements change. The updated version will be posted on this page with a revised date.

Privacy Contact

For questions or requests relating to your information, contact:

Joline | The Gene Scene
Email: info@thegenescene.com

2. Health & Wellness Disclaimer

Educational and Wellness Services

The Gene Scene provides personalized health and wellness education and coaching intended to help you better understand your individual biology and make informed lifestyle decisions.

My services may incorporate health history, symptoms, DNA-related insights, functional testing information, nutrition, lifestyle factors, supplements, and other wellness information, depending on the service you purchase.

The information provided through this website, consultations, emails, reports, client portal, and wellness plans is intended for educational and wellness purposes. It is not a substitute for medical care, medical diagnosis, or treatment from an appropriately licensed healthcare professional.

No Doctor-Patient Relationship

Purchasing a service or participating in a consultation with The Gene Scene does not, by itself, establish a doctor-patient relationship.

I am an IIN-certified Integrative Health Coach and a Precision Health-certified Genetics Health Coach. I am not a physician, and my services do not replace the care of your physician or other licensed healthcare provider.

My recommendations must remain within the scope of my training and the services offered. Where a concern requires medical assessment, diagnosis, treatment, or care outside that scope, you may be advised to consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

DNA Testing and Genetic Insights

DNA-related insights can provide information about genetic variations and how they may relate to certain biological processes. They do not, by themselves, determine your health outcomes or establish a diagnosis.

Genetic information must be interpreted in context. Lifestyle, environment, health history, current symptoms, laboratory results, and other factors may all influence how relevant a genetic finding is to an individual.

DNA testing and genetic interpretation have limitations. Results may not identify every relevant factor, predict every health outcome, or explain every symptom. A finding may be uncertain, may have limited practical significance, or may require further professional evaluation.

No genetic result or wellness recommendation guarantees that a particular condition will develop, improve, or resolve.

Functional Testing and Other Results

Where functional testing or other laboratory information is part of your service, those results will be considered within the context of the service provided and the available information.

Testing has limitations, and results can be affected by multiple factors. Additional assessment by a licensed healthcare professional may be necessary to interpret a result or determine whether medical treatment is appropriate.

Not every symptom has a single identifiable cause, and not every concern can be resolved through testing or wellness coaching.

Supplements, Nutrition, and Lifestyle Recommendations

Any nutrition, lifestyle, or supplement recommendations are intended to support your wellness goals and should be considered in light of your individual circumstances.

Supplements can have side effects and may interact with medications or medical conditions. Discuss supplements and significant dietary or lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider, particularly if you take medication, have a diagnosed condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are planning a procedure.

Do not stop, start, or change prescription medication based solely on information or recommendations provided by The Gene Scene.

You are responsible for communicating relevant health information, including medication use, allergies, diagnoses, and significant changes in your health, so recommendations can be considered appropriately.

Your Healthcare Remains Your Responsibility

You are encouraged to maintain a relationship with a licensed healthcare professional and to seek medical advice for symptoms or concerns that require clinical assessment.

Seek urgent or emergency medical care when appropriate. Do not delay seeking care because of information received through The Gene Scene, a DNA report, a wellness consultation, or any other educational resource.

No Guaranteed Results

I am committed to providing thoughtful, individualized guidance, but I cannot guarantee specific health outcomes, symptom improvement, or a particular result from testing, supplements, or lifestyle changes.

Results vary from person to person and depend on many factors, including circumstances outside my control. Your participation, consistency, access to appropriate medical care, and individual biology may all affect outcomes.

Testimonials and examples reflect individual experiences and are not a promise that you will experience the same results.

By using this website or purchasing services, you acknowledge that wellness decisions involve individual judgment and that you remain responsible for decisions concerning your health and medical care.

3. Terms of Service

Scope of Services

The Gene Scene offers personalized wellness services that may include consultations, DNA testing or genetic insights, review of relevant health information, functional testing arrangements, individualized recommendations, educational resources, and ongoing support.

The specific services, deliverables, support arrangements, and fees included in your purchase will be described on the relevant service page, checkout page, proposal, or written agreement.

Services may differ in scope. A one-time consultation or DNA-related service does not automatically include the testing, follow-up support, or deliverables included in a longer-term program.

Client Responsibilities

To help me provide an appropriate service, you agree to:

• Provide information that is accurate and complete to the best of your knowledge.

• Share relevant updates about your symptoms, health history, medications, supplements, and circumstances.

• Review testing instructions and complete required forms within the relevant timeframes.

• Follow the applicable instructions for collecting or submitting samples.

• Use the client portal and communication channels provided for your service.

• Ask questions if you do not understand a recommendation or need clarification.

• Make your own informed decisions about whether to implement recommendations.

• Seek medical care when appropriate.

If important information is missing, testing is delayed, or required steps are not completed, this may affect the timing or usefulness of the service.

DNA Testing and Third-Party Services

Some services may depend on third-party DNA-testing providers, genetic analysis platforms, laboratories, or other external services.

The availability, processing times, testing requirements, and reporting timelines of those providers are outside my direct control. Delays, technical problems, sample issues, or provider policy changes may affect delivery.

Where applicable, you may be required to accept a provider's separate terms, privacy policy, consent documents, or testing requirements.

The Gene Scene does not control every aspect of third-party services and cannot guarantee their availability, turnaround times, or specific results.

Consultations and Appointments

Appointments will be arranged through the booking process or client portal applicable to your service.

Please arrive prepared and provide any requested information before your appointment. If you need to reschedule or cancel, follow the cancellation terms provided for your specific service.

Any required notice period, missed-appointment fee, or rescheduling limit must be communicated to you as part of the applicable booking or purchase terms.

Communication and Support

Support availability depends on the service purchased. If your package includes messaging or other ongoing support, the applicable service description will explain the available channel and intended scope.

Support is intended for questions related to your wellness service, recommendations, and progress. It is not an emergency service and should not be used for urgent medical concerns.

I operate The Gene Scene independently, without a practitioner team. I make reasonable efforts to respond within the support arrangements specified for your service, but responses may not be immediate.

Please refer to your service agreement or onboarding materials for the specific support schedule, response expectations, and any limits that apply.

Educational Materials and Intellectual Property

Content on this website and materials created for The Gene Scene, including written resources, educational content, reports, frameworks, and branded materials, are owned by The Gene Scene or used with permission, unless otherwise indicated.

You may use materials supplied to you for your own personal use in connection with your wellness journey. You may not reproduce, republish, distribute, sell, or commercially exploit those materials without prior written permission, except where permitted by law.

Your personalized information remains subject to the applicable privacy terms and legal rights.

Website Use

You agree not to misuse this website, interfere with its operation, attempt unauthorized access, introduce malicious code, or use the website in a way that violates applicable law or the rights of others.

I may update, suspend, or discontinue website content or features when reasonably necessary.

Third-Party Links and Services

This website may contain links to third-party websites, platforms, or services. These links are provided for convenience or informational purposes.

The Gene Scene does not control all third-party websites and is not responsible for their content, availability, terms, or privacy practices. Your use of those services is subject to their applicable terms and policies.

Limitation of Liability

To the extent permitted by applicable law, The Gene Scene is not responsible for indirect, incidental, special, or consequential losses arising from your use of the website or services.

Nothing in these terms excludes or limits liability where doing so would be unlawful. These terms do not remove any consumer rights that cannot legally be excluded.

Nothing in this section changes the health and wellness disclaimer above or guarantees a particular outcome.

Changes to Services or Terms

I may update services, website content, and these terms as my business evolves or legal requirements change. Updates will be posted on this page, with the revision date changed accordingly.

Changes to a service you have already purchased will be handled in accordance with the terms applicable to your purchase and any legal requirements.

Governing Law

These terms are subject to the laws of [Insert applicable state and country], without overriding any mandatory consumer protections that apply to you.

Any dispute will be handled in accordance with applicable law.

4. Payment, Cancellation, Refund & Fulfillment Policy

Payment Terms

The price, payment schedule, and included services will be disclosed before you complete your purchase.

Depending on the service offered, payment options may include payment in full or an approved installment or payment plan. The options available for a particular service will be shown at checkout or in the applicable written agreement.

By choosing a payment plan, you authorize the payments described in the agreement and agree to pay the full amount due under that arrangement, subject to applicable law and the terms of your purchase.

A payment plan divides the cost of a purchase into scheduled payments. It does not automatically mean that you may discontinue future payments simply because you stop participating in the service.

If a payment fails or is overdue, I may contact you to arrange resolution. Where permitted by law and consistent with the applicable agreement, access to services may be paused while a material payment issue remains unresolved.

Any late fees, collection costs, or other charges will apply only if they were properly disclosed and are permitted by law.

Payment Processing

Payments will be processed through the payment provider identified during checkout or in your purchase agreement.

The payment provider may collect and process payment information under its own terms and privacy policy. The Gene Scene does not intend to store full payment-card details in ordinary client records.

Cancellations and Rescheduling

If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please contact me through the designated communication channel as soon as possible.

The cancellation notice period, any rescheduling limits, and any applicable missed-appointment fee will be specified in the booking terms or service agreement for your purchase.

If no specific cancellation policy has been supplied for a service, please contact me to discuss the situation rather than assuming that a particular notice period or fee applies.

Refund Policy

Because services may involve reserved appointment time, individualized preparation, digital materials, testing arrangements, and work performed specifically for you, refunds may be subject to restrictions.

The refund terms applicable to your purchase will be disclosed at checkout or in your written service agreement. Any nonrefundable fees, testing costs, or other exclusions must be clearly stated before purchase and will be subject to applicable law.

Where a service has already begun, work has been completed, or testing has been ordered or processed, the amount refundable, if any, may depend on the applicable agreement, the work performed, costs incurred, and legal requirements.

If you have a concern about a purchase, please contact me directly so I can review the circumstances.

Nothing in this policy limits any refund or cancellation right that you may have under applicable law.

DNA Testing and Sample-Related Issues

Where DNA testing is included, the process may depend on the testing provider's sample requirements and policies.

If a sample is rejected, a kit is delayed, or a testing provider requires additional steps, I will work with you within the scope of my role to clarify the next steps. Replacement samples, retesting, shipping, and related costs will be handled according to the applicable provider's policy and the terms disclosed for your purchase.

Testing and processing timelines are estimates where they depend on a third party. I cannot guarantee a particular turnaround time or a particular test result.

Digital Materials and Consultations

Digital materials, educational resources, reports, and consultations may be delivered electronically or through a client portal.

You are responsible for providing accurate contact details and maintaining access to the email address or platform used for delivery. If you experience difficulty accessing a purchased resource, contact me so I can help resolve the issue where reasonably possible.

Shipping and Physical Products

If a service includes a physical DNA kit or another shipped item, shipping arrangements, estimated delivery times, and any applicable shipping charges will be communicated as part of the purchase process or by the relevant provider.

Delivery dates may be affected by carrier delays, weather, supply issues, or other circumstances outside my control.

Policy Updates

I may update this policy when necessary to reflect changes to my services, payment arrangements, or business operations. Updated terms will be posted on this page.

The terms applicable to an existing purchase will also be subject to the agreement made at the time of purchase and any applicable legal requirements.

5. Contact The Gene Scene

If you have questions about these Terms & Policies, your purchase, or your personal information, please contact me:

Email: info@thegenescene.com
Website: thegenescene.com

I welcome questions and will do my best to direct your inquiry to the appropriate next step.

Thank you for trusting The Gene Scene as part of your journey toward understanding your body and making more informed wellness decisions.