Informed Consent - General

Informed Consent - General

Informed consent for telehealth services is the process by which a patient is fully informed about, and voluntarily agrees to, receive health care through electronic or remote technologies (such as video, phone, or secure messaging) instead of in-person care.

It serves both an ethical and legal function: to protect patient autonomy and to document that the patient understands the nature and limitations of telehealth.

Key elements of telehealth informed consent typically include:

1. Nature of telehealth
   The patient is informed that services will be delivered using telecommunications technology rather than face-to-face encounters, and what type of technology will be used (video, phone, remote monitoring, etc.).
2. Scope of services
   The patient understands what services can and cannot be provided via telehealth and that some conditions may still require in-person care.
3. Risks and limitations
   The patient is informed of potential risks, such as:
   • Technical failures or poor connection
   • Possible limits to physical examination
   • Rare risks to privacy or data security despite safeguards
4. Benefits
   The patient is informed of potential benefits, such as:
   • Increased access to care
   • Reduced travel time and cost
   • Convenience and continuity of care
5. Privacy and confidentiality
   The patient is told how their information will be protected (HIPAA-compliant platforms, secure systems) and any limits to confidentiality.
6. Alternatives
   The patient is informed that in-person care is an available alternative and that choosing telehealth is voluntary.
7. Right to withdraw
   The patient understands they may refuse or stop telehealth services at any time without affecting their right to future care.
8. Emergency procedures
   The patient is informed what to do in case of an emergency during a telehealth visit and how emergencies will be handled.
9. Consent documentation
   Consent must be documented, either:
   • In writing (paper or electronic form), or
   • Verbally, with documentation in the medical record

Example of simple telehealth consent language:

"I understand that telehealth involves the use of electronic communication to provide health care services. I understand the benefits and risks of telehealth, including possible technical problems and limits to physical examination. I know that I can choose in-person care instead and that I may stop telehealth services at any time. I consent to receive health care services by telehealth."