Telehealth involves the use of electronic communications to enable HCO Behavioral Health to connect with individuals using interactive audio, video, telephone and/or other audio/video communications and includes the practice of delivery of services such as assessments, diagnosis, consultation, transfer of medical and clinical data, psychoeducation, referral to resources, psychotherapy/therapy, and additional Mental Health Rehabilitation (MHR) services approved by Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
Considerations regarding Telehealth Services:
Comfort with technology varies among people and therefore, use of telemental health or “telehealth” requires a comfort and proficiency with technology. HCO Behavioral Health will work to assess with you whether you might be a fit for telemental health prior to engaging in services.
By signing this form, I understand and agree to the following:
1. I have a right to confidentiality about my treatment and related communications via telehealth. The laws that protect confidentiality of my personal information also apply to telehealth. As such, I understand that the information released by me during my treatment is generally confidential with exceptions for safety and legal implications, as expressed in the Informed Consent document.
2. I understand that there are risks associated with participating in telehealth including, but not limited to, the possibility, despite reasonable efforts and safeguards on the part of HCO Behavioral Health, that my sessions and transmission of my treatment information could be disrupted or distorted by technical failures and/or interrupted or accessed by unauthorized persons, and that the electronic storage of my treatment information could be accessed by unauthorized persons.
3. I understand that miscommunication between myself and HCO Behavioral Health may occur via telehealth.
4. I understand that there is a risk of being overheard by persons near me and that I am responsible for using a location that is private and free from distractions or intrusions.
5. I understand that at the beginning of each telehealth session HCO Behavioral Health is required to verify my full name and current location.
6. I understand that in some instances telehealth may not be as effective or provide the same results as in-person treatment. I understand that if HCO Behavioral Health believes I would be better served by in-person, it will be discussed with me, and services will be transitioned to in-person with HCO Behavioral Health. If such services are not possible because of distance or hardship, I will be referred to other providers who can provide such services.
7. I understand that while telehealth has been found to be effective in treating a wide range of mental and emotional issues, there is no guarantee that telehealth is effective for all individuals. Therefore, I understand that while I may benefit from telehealth, results cannot be guaranteed or assured.
8. I understand that some telehealth platforms allow for video or audio recordings and that neither I nor HCO Behavioral Health may record the sessions without the other party’s written permission.
9. I understand that HCO Behavioral Health will make reasonable efforts to provide me with emergency resources in my geographic area.