Telehealth Consent

Nature of telehealth services

PCG Health may provide certain services using telehealth technology, such as secure video conferencing or other remote communication methods, as permitted by California Business and Professions Code section 2290.5 and other applicable laws. Telehealth allows services to occur when the client and clinician are in different locations.

Potential benefits

• greater convenience and continuity of care
• access to services when travel or logistics make in-person visits difficult
• ability to maintain treatment during appropriate situations where remote care is clinically suitable

Potential risks and limitations

• technology interruptions or reduced audio/video quality
• privacy risks if the session environment or technology is not secure
• limitations in observing nonverbal cues or performing aspects of assessment that may be easier in person
• the possibility that telehealth may not be clinically appropriate for every situation

Your rights during telehealth

• you may ask questions about telehealth before or during treatment
• you may withdraw consent for telehealth, subject to clinical and scheduling considerations
• you may request information about alternatives to telehealth when available

Technology and emergency planning

Clients are expected to participate from a location that offers as much privacy as possible and to use a stable internet or phone connection whenever feasible. At the start of telehealth sessions, we may confirm your physical location and an emergency contact when clinically appropriate. If there is an emergency or an acute safety issue, you may be directed to call 911, contact a crisis resource, or go to the nearest emergency room.