Telehealth informed consent
Telehealth allows you to connect with licensed healthcare providers remotely using secure technology. While convenient, telehealth services have limitations and may not replace in person medical care in every situation.
- Required before any telehealth visit
- Emergency? call 911, not your provider
- Your right: in person care instead of telehealth
Key point: Clinical services are provided by independent licensed providers of Arora Health.
1. Risks and benefits
Telehealth is the delivery of healthcare services using electronic communications between a provider and a patient who are not in the same physical location. Your program uses one of two visit types:
- Synchronous (live video): a real time interactive visit with your provider via secure video.
- Asynchronous (store and forward): you complete a detailed health questionnaire; your provider reviews your information and responds with a clinical assessment and treatment recommendation. You are not present in real time during the review.
Benefits of telehealth include:
- Access to licensed provider care without travel to a physical office
- Convenient scheduling from your home or private location
- Faster access to evaluation and treatment
- Secure ongoing communication with your care team
Risks and limitations include:
- Your provider cannot physically examine you. Some conditions may require an in person evaluation before a prescription can be issued.
- Your provider may determine at any time that a program or medication is not appropriate for you based on the information available via telehealth.
2. Technology limitations
Technology failures may interrupt a visit; your provider will attempt to reconnect or contact you by phone. Transmission of health information over electronic networks carries inherent security risks despite the security measures in place. You are responsible for maintaining a compatible device, reliable internet connectivity, and a private location for health discussions.
3. Emergency situations
Telehealth is not appropriate for emergencies. Call 911 immediately if an emergency develops, or go to your nearest emergency room.
4. Provider credentials
- All providers delivering clinical services hold valid, current licenses in the states where they practice.
- You have the right to know the identity, credentials, and license number of your treating provider, available in your patient portal and upon request before your visit.
- You have the right to receive care in person from a provider of your choice instead of or in addition to telehealth.
5. Laboratory services
If your program includes lab or bloodwork services, your results are reviewed by your provider and handled as part of your medical record. See our HIPAA Notice for how lab results are used and shared.
6. Data privacy
Information shared during a telehealth visit is protected using industry standard security measures, but no electronic transmission is completely secure. See our Privacy Policy and HIPAA Notice for how your information is collected, used, and safeguarded.
7. Patient responsibilities
- Provide accurate, complete, and current health information during intake and throughout your care.
- Verify your identity and confirm your physical location at the time of your visit.
- Notify your care team before your visit if you are located in a state where your treating provider is not licensed.
- Report side effects, new symptoms, or changes in your health to your provider promptly.