What telehealth involves
Telehealth uses electronic communications to support evaluation and care when the patient and provider are not in the same location. The final experience may include questionnaires, secure messaging, audio/video communication, identity verification, records, and electronic prescribing where permitted and appropriate.
Potential benefits and limits
Telehealth can improve convenience and access, but it may not be appropriate for every condition or situation. Technology can fail, information may be incomplete, and an in-person examination or urgent local care may be needed.
Provider judgment
Completing an intake does not guarantee diagnosis, treatment, or a prescription. A licensed provider makes an independent clinical decision and may decline to treat or direct a patient to another level of care.
Privacy and technology
The final consent will explain the systems used, privacy practices, security limitations, communication methods, and how records are maintained by the responsible clinical entity.
Questions and withdrawal
The final consent will explain how to ask questions, withdraw consent where permitted, obtain records, and contact the clinical provider. It will also identify limitations that apply once services have already been delivered.