Beth Holt Wright, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Waynesboro, VA
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
Internationally Certified Clinician

Telehealth is healthcare provided by any means other than a face-to-face visit. In telehealth services, medical and mental health information is used for diagnosis, consultation, treatment, therapy, follow-up, and education. Health information is exchanged interactively from one site to another through electronic communications. Telephone consultation, videoconferencing, transmission of still images, e-health technologies, patient portals, and remote patient monitoring are all considered telehealth services.

Please Initial:
 
_____ I understand that telehealth involves the communication of my medical/mental health information in an electronic or technology-assisted format.
_____ I understand that I may opt out of the telehealth visit at any time. This will not change my ability to receive future care at this office.
_____ I understand that telehealth services can only be provided to patients, including myself, who are residing in the state of Virginia at the time of this service.
_____ I understand that telehealth billing information is collected in the same manner as a regular office visit. My financial responsibility will be determined individually and governed by my insurance carrier(s), Medicare, or Medicaid, or third party, and it is my responsibility to check with my insurance plan to determine coverage.
_____ I understand that all electronic medical communications carry some level of risk. While the likelihood of risks associated with the use of telehealth in a secure environment is reduced, the risks are nonetheless real and important to understand. These risks include but are not limited to:
_____It is easier for electronic communication to be forwarded, intercepted, or even changed without my knowledge and despite taking reasonable measures.
_____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 healthcare provider, the transmission of medical information could be disrupted or distorted by technical failures.
_____ agree that information exchanged during my telehealth visit will be maintained by the doctors, other healthcare providers, and healthcare facilities involved in my care.
_____ I understand that medical information, including medical records, are governed by federal and state laws that apply to telehealth. This includes my right to access my own medical records (and copies of medical records).
_____ I understand that Doxy.me is the telehealth platform my therapist has elected to use and this is advertised as HIPPA compliant, therefore I willingly and knowingly wish to proceed.
_____ I understand that I must take reasonable steps to protect myself from unauthorized use of my electronic communications by others.
_____ The healthcare provider is not responsible for breaches of confidentiality caused by an independent third party or by me.
_____ I agree that I have verified to my healthcare provider my identity and current location in connection with the telehealth services. I acknowledge that failure to comply with these procedures may terminate the telehealth visit.
_____ I understand that I have a responsibility to verify the identity and credentials of the healthcare provider rendering my care via telehealth and to confirm that he or she is my healthcare provider.
_____ I understand that electronic communication cannot be used for emergencies or time-sensitive matters.
_____ I understand and agree that a medical evaluation via telehealth may limit my healthcare provider’s ability to fully diagnose a condition or disease. As the patient, I agree to accept responsibility for following my healthcare provider’s recommendations—including a recommendation for a higher level of care an in-office visit.
_____ 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.).
_____ I understand that my healthcare provider may choose to forward my information to an authorized third party. Therefore, I have informed the healthcare provider of any information I do not wish to be transmitted through electronic communications.
_____ By signing below, I understand the inherent risks of errors or deficiencies in the electronic transmission of health information and images during a telehealth visit.
_____ I understand that 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.
_____ To the extent permitted by law, I agree to waive and release my healthcare provider and his or her institution or practice from any claims I may have about the telehealth visit.
_____ I understand that if my therapist reasonably believes that I plan to harm myself or someone else, my therapist will contact local emergency services to come to my location and ensure my safety. Emergency communications should be made to the existing emergency 911 services in my community.

I certify that I have read and understand this agreement and that all blanks were filled in prior to my signature with the opportunity to have questions answered to my satisfaction.

Client Signature:
_____________________________________________________

Date: ______________________


Therapist’s Signature:

_____________________________________________________

Date: ______________________