(psychotherapist) as part of my psychotherapy. I understand that "telemedicine" includes the practice of health care delivery, diagnosis, consultation, treatment using interactive audio-video communications. I also understand that, with my signed consent, telemedicine may involve the electronic communication of my medical/mental healthcare information to other health care practitioners. The rights stated supplement those rights I have generally as a patient of the psychotherapist.
I understand that I have the following rights with respect to telemedicine:
I have the right to withhold or withdraw consent to telemedicine treatment at any time.
The laws that protect the confidentiality of my medical/healthcare 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 mandatory exceptions to confidentiality, including reporting child abuse and the imminent risk of danger to self or others. If I put my mental state at issue in certain legal proceedings, then the psychotherapist may be compelled to release otherwise confidential information about my evaluation and treatment.
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 interrupted or distorted by technical failures or unauthorized persons, and that the electronic communication of my medical information could be accessed by unauthorized persons.
I understand that telemedicine based services and care may not be as complete or effective as face-to-face services. I also understand that if my psychotherapist believes I would be better served by in-person psychotherapeutic services, I will be referred to a psychotherapist who can provide such services in my area. 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. I understand that I may benefit from telemedicine, but that results cannot be guaranteed or assured.
As with all medical records, I understand that I have a right to access my medical information and copies of medical records of telemedicine treatment in accordance with New York State law.
I have read and understand the information provided above. I have discussed it with the psychotherapist, and all of my questions have been answered to my satisfaction. My signature below indicates my informed and willful consent to treatment.