Telehealth Psychology
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is the use of video and audio technologies to support virtual appointments services between healthcare providers and their clients. You can have your visit with our psychiatrist or psychotherapist from the comfort of your home or office. Our office’s default telehealth platform is Zoom.
At the time of your appointment:
You will receive a link for your Zoom appointment one hour before the start time of your appointment. If you don’t see the Zoom invite in your inbox, be sure to check your spam or promotions folder. Click on the link listed below "Join Zoom Meeting" and wait for your provider to arrive. If there are technical difficulties or your provider is running late, please wait. Your provider is aware of your appointment but may have had an urgent situation come up. They know to call you if there are any technical issues.
What is Zoom?
Zoom is a secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing application that uses your mobile device or computer.
If you will be using your mobile device:
Prior to your appointment time, download the free app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play store (Android). You can find instructions here.
If you will be using your computer or laptop:
View the requirements for using Zoom here.
What speed internet connection do I need?
We recommend a bandwidth of at least 10 mbps. We recommend an Ethernet cable over WiFi when possible to ensure you receive the best possible connection through your internet provider. You can check your internet speed here: www.speedtest.net
What type of physical environment should I be in?
Try to minimize environmental noise to avoid distraction. You need a private, confidential space for telehealth sessions.
What policies cover telehealth visits?
The following policies are signed by all new patients before their 1st visit:
Telehealth visits will occur through interactive audio, video, or telephone. I understand there are potential risks to this technology, including interruptions, unauthorized access, and technical difficulties. Telehealth services may not be sufficient to allow for appropriate medical decision-making by my provider. I understand that my provider or I can discontinue the telehealth visits if it is felt that telehealth visits are not adequate for my situation. A visit may be cut short by my provider if I am driving, distracted, not in a private location, or having technical difficulties. I will inform my provider as soon as my session begins if any other person can hear or see any part of our session. I understand that certain situations including emergencies and crises are inappropriate for telehealth services. If I am in crisis or in an emergency (e.g., danger to self or others), I should immediately call 911 or seek help from a hospital or crisis-oriented health care facility in my immediate area. I will ensure the proper configuration and functioning of all my electronic equipment prior to my session because the computer, tablet, or mobile telephone I use must have a working camera and audio input so that my provider can see and hear me in real-time.