KHN periodically highlights reader reaction and responses to our stories. We edit for space and require full names.

In response to KHN’s story, Workplace Wellness Programs Put Privacy At Risk (Hancock, 9/30) –

Amy McDonough, vice president and general manager, Fitbit Wellness:

Privacy is an important issue for our company. As the market leader in connected health and fitness, Fitbit is committed to protecting consumer privacy and keeping data safe. The privacy of our users’ data is a top priority and the trust of our customers is paramount. Furthermore, it has always been our policy not to sell user data; we have never sold personal data and we do not share personal data unless a user specifically directs us to do so, or under the limited exceptions described in our privacy policy, http://www.fitbit.com/privacy.

I also want to point out that Fitbit purposely drafted its privacy policy in clear, non-legalese so our users understand what data we collect and how we use it. This policy and our privacy practices have received high praise from a variety of sources, including from Senator Chuck Schumer, D-NY, in Sept. 2014: “Fitbit customers can breathe a sigh of relief and should be aware that this company cares very much about their privacy and their security. We are urging all other fitness tracking companies to follow Fitbit’s lead and adopt similar privacy policies.”

We are also committed to leading the industry in protecting our users’ privacy when they participate in their employers’ wellness programs. In August we developed a Wellness Community Pledge (http://www.fitbit.com/fitbit-wellness/pledge) for our corporate wellness clients, providing guidance to help them ensure that their wellness program complies with the law and creates a positive experience that inspires healthy habits. We agree that best practices are needed here to protect user privacy.