I hereby consent to engaging in telemedicine as part of my psychotherapy. I understand that “telemedicine” includes the practice of health care delivery, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, transfer of medical data, and education using interactive audio, video, or data communications. I understand that telemedicine also involves the communication of my medical/mental health information, both orally and visually, to health care practitioners.
I understand that I have the following rights with respect to telemedicine:
(1) I have the right to withhold or withdraw consent at any time without affecting my right to future care or treatment nor risking the loss or withdrawal of any program benefits to which I would otherwise be entitled.
(2) The laws that protect the confidentiality of my medical information also apply to telemedicine. As such, I understand that the information disclosed by me during the course of my therapy is generally confidential. However, there are some situations in which we are legally obligated to take actions, which are necessary, to attempt to protect others from harm and some information about a client’s treatment may need to be revealed. These situations are unusual; should they occur however, we will make every effort to fully discuss it with you before taking any action. The following are some examples: if we have reason to suspect that a child, an elderly person, vulnerable adult or a disabled person is being abused, we must file a report with the appropriate state agency. If we believe that a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another, we are required to take protective actions, which may include notifying the potential victim, notifying the police, or seeking appropriate hospitalization. If the client threatens to harm him/herself, we may be required to seek a hospitalization for them, or to contact family members or others who can help provide protection. If we learned that you have been abused or exploited by another professional person, we must report it.
(3) I understand that there are risks and consequences from telemedicine, including, but not limited to, the possibility, despite reasonable efforts on the part of my psychotherapist, that: the transmission of my medical information could be disrupted or distorted by technical failures; the transmission of my medical information could be interrupted by unauthorized persons; and/or the electronic storage of my medical information could be accessed by unauthorized persons. In addition, I understand that telemedicine based services and care may not be as complete as face-to-face services. I also understand that if my psychotherapist believes I would be better served by another form of psychotherapeutic services (e.g. face-to-face services) I will be referred to a psychotherapist who can provide such services in my area. Finally, I understand that there are potential risks and benefits associated with any form of psychotherapy, and that despite my efforts and the efforts of my psychotherapist, my condition may not improve, and in some cases may even get worse.
(4) I understand that I may benefit from telemedicine, but that results cannot be guaranteed or assured.
(5) I understand that I have a right to access my medical information and copies of medical records in accordance with HIPAA privacy rules and applicable state law.
I have read and understand the information provided above. I have discussed it with my psychotherapist, and all of my questions have been answered to my satisfaction.