Informed Consent and Telehealth Services

Definition of Telehealth

For the purposes of this document, telehealth is defined as the electronic communications technologies used by the physician and staff at Caritas Pediatrics and Wellness, PLLC (together, the Practice), to enable them to obtain information and communicate remotely while providing me with patient care. I understand that the same standard of care applies to medical treatment obtained through telehealth communications as applies to an in-person visit. The information obtained through telehealth communications may be used for diagnosis, treatment, follow-up and/or education and may include any of the following:

·       Patient medical records

·       Medical images

·       Live two-way audio and video and data communications

·       Output data from medical devices and sound and video files

·       Questionnaires, email, and text messaging

The electronic systems used will incorporate network and software security protocols to protect the confidentiality of patient identification and imaging data and will include measures to safeguard the data and to ensure its integrity against intentional or unintentional corruption.

Understandings

I understand that:

Telehealth involves the communication of my health information in an electronic or technology-assisted format;

All electronic medical communications carry some level of risk;

Despite reasonable security efforts, it is possible for electronic communication to be forwarded, intercepted, or changed without my knowledge;

Electronic systems that are accessed by employers, friends, or others are not secure and should be avoided;

It is important for me to use a secure network; 

Despite reasonable efforts on the part of my physician, the transmission of medical information could be disrupted or distorted by technical failures;

I may opt-out of the telehealth visit at any time;

The Practice will maintain information exchanged during my telehealth visit as part of my Medical record; 

The Practice is not responsible for breaches of confidentiality caused an independent third party or by myself;

I must verify my identity and current location to my physician and failure to do so may terminate the telehealth visit;

I understand that I must not use electronic communication in emergencies or time-sensitive matters;

I understand that electronic communication may be used to communicate highly sensitive medical information, such as treatment for or information related to HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, or addiction treatment (alcohol, drug dependence, etc.);

A medical evaluation via telehealth may limit my physician’s ability to fully diagnose a condition or disease. As the patient, I agree to accept responsibility for following my physician’s recommendations—including further diagnostic testing, such as lab testing, a biopsy, or an in-office visit;

There is never a warranty or guarantee as to a particular result or

outcome related to a condition or diagnosis when medical care is provided;

By electronically signing or checking the box below, I am certifying that I understand the inherent risks of errors or deficiencies in the electronic transmission of health information and images during a telehealth visit.

Possible Benefits of Telehealth

·       Easier access to medical care;

·       Convenience;

·       More time-efficient medical evaluation and management.

Possible Risks of Telehealth

As with any technology used in medical care, there are potential risks associated with the use of telehealth. These risks include, but may not be limited to:

·       Information transmitted may not be sufficient to allow for appropriate medical decision making by the Provider;

·       Your physician may not be able to provide medical treatment for your particular condition remotely;

·       Regulatory and other requirements may limit your physician’s ability to provide certain treatment options, including prescriptions;

·       Delays in medical evaluation and treatment could occur due to deficiencies or failures in technology equipment;

·       Security protocols could fail, resulting in privacy breaches of personal medical information.

Consent for Telehealth

I, the undersigned (or parent/legal guardian) agree that my act of typing my name below will have the same legal effect as a handwritten signature. I have the choice of executing this document in either of the two ways described above. By electronically signing this document, I certify that I have read this document and understand it. I have had the opportunity to have any questions answered. I understand this document in its entirety, and I consent to participation in telehealth. I understand that I may have a hard copy of this Informed Consent upon request.