COVID-19 is placing stress on Canada’s public health system. I am starting to offer virtual psychotherapy to make sure that I can continue to care for my client safely and effectively. This means that I will be using video and audio technologies for some clients visits rather than asking all clients to come into our office. These technologies are provided by vendors like Google, or Apple to help make discussions with your care provider as easy as possible during these difficult times. Some psychotherapy concerns can be addressed with virtual care alone, but in some cases I may ask you to visit a hospital or other health care facility if necessary, for a medical consultation.
We do our best to make sure that any information you give to us during virtual visits is private and secure, but no video or audio tools are ever completely secure. There is an increased security risk that your health information may be intercepted or disclosed to third parties when using video or audio communications tools. To help us keep your information safe and secure, you can:
- Understand that this method of communication is not secure in the same way as a private appointment in an exam room.
- Use a private computer/device (i.e., not an employer’s or third party’s computer/device) and a secure internet connection. For example, using a personal computer or tablet is more secure than using someone else’s computer, and your access to the Internet on your home network will generally be more secure than an open guest Wi-Fi connection.
- By providing your information, you agree to let us collect, use, or disclose your personal health information through video or audio communications (while following applicable privacy laws) to provide you with care. In particular, the following means of electronic communication may be used (identify all that apply): Phone, audio or videoconferencing (including Skype, Facetime, Zoom, Doxyme, etc.).