Telehealth Consent

1. What Is Telehealth?

Telehealth involves the use of electronic communications and information technologies to deliver healthcare services when you and your provider are not in the same physical location. This may include video visits, secure messaging, phone consultations, electronic prescribing, and review of labs or other clinical data.

2. Potential Benefits of Telehealth

• Increased convenience and access to licensed clinicians
• Reduced travel time and cost
• Flexible scheduling options
• Continuity of care and follow-up convenience

3. Potential Risks and Limitations of Telehealth

• Technical difficulties may delay, interrupt, or affect the quality of care
• Your provider cannot perform a full hands-on physical examination during telehealth
• Electronic communications may have inherent security vulnerabilities despite reasonable safeguards
• Your provider may determine that in-person evaluation, imaging, or laboratory testing is needed
• Telehealth cannot be relied upon for emergency medical situations
• Not all treatments or prescriptions are appropriate via telehealth in every jurisdiction

4. Nature of the Relationship

A clinician-patient relationship is formed when a licensed provider evaluates and treats you through the Services. Providers exercise independent clinical judgment. Topp Health does not guarantee any specific diagnosis, treatment, medication, or outcome. You may be declined for telehealth treatment if it is not clinically appropriate or not permitted in your location.

5. Confidentiality and Privacy

We take reasonable steps to protect the privacy and security of your information in telehealth encounters, consistent with applicable law including HIPAA where it applies. You agree to participate from a private location, not to record visits without permission, and to use a reasonably secure internet connection where possible. Our Notice of Privacy Practices describes how PHI may be used and disclosed.

6. Your Responsibilities

• Provide accurate and complete information about your identity, location, medical history, medications, and allergies
• Be physically located in a state where we can lawfully provide care at the time of the visit
• Ensure you have a private setting and working device/camera/microphone for video visits
• Follow care instructions and seek emergency care when needed
• Inform us of changes to your contact information and communication preferences

7. Communication Expectations

Non-urgent messages and requests are generally reviewed within one to two business days. Do not use messaging for emergencies. Response times may vary based on clinical volume and business hours.

8. Your Rights

You may withdraw consent to telehealth services at any time without affecting your right to future care that we are able to provide by other means, subject to applicable law and clinical requirements. You may request in-person alternatives when available, or a referral when telehealth is not appropriate.

9. Acknowledgement

By checking the telehealth consent box during account setup or by proceeding with a telehealth visit, you acknowledge that you have read this Consent, understand its contents, and agree to participate in telehealth under these terms.